When your home isn’t quite as it should be – whether it’s a leaking roof, or damp and mould – it can feel like your world is upside down.
We understand how overwhelming it can be to live in substandard conditions, and we’re here to help you through the process of getting your home fixed, so you can enjoy the living conditions you deserve.
To put you at ease, we’ve put together a tenant’s guide to reporting and resolving issues in your rental property.
We’ll take you through:
- How to report issues
- What steps your landlord or housing association should take
- How to get the repairs done without all the stress
We’re here to make things clear and simple, without the legal jargon.
What are the stages of a housing disrepair claim?
Step 1: Reporting the problem to your council landlord or housing association
The first step in getting the repairs done is reporting the problem to your landlord or housing association.
Whether it’s a damp wall, a broken boiler, or something more serious, the sooner you report it, the sooner it can be fixed.
You can report by telephone, email, letter, or via an online portal, if available.
This ensures there’s a record of your complaint. Be clear about what the problem is, where it’s located, and what impact it’s having on your day-to-day life.
The more specific you can be, the better. If possible, take photographs or videos to show the extent of the damage, as this could be useful later.
Tip: Keep a copy of everything you send, including any forms or emails. This way, you’ll have a record of your communication, which can be vital if you need to escalate things.
Step 2: Giving access to the property for inspection
Once you’ve reported the issue, Your Landlord may contact you so they can inspect the disrepair.
We know this can feel a bit daunting, but it’s important to understand that your landlord or housing association can’t carry out the necessary repairs without assessing the situation first.
You should receive at least 24 hours’ notice before anyone enters your property for an inspection or repair.
If you’re worried about timing or any other concerns, have an open conversation with your landlord or housing association to arrange a time that works for you.
Tip: If you feel uncomfortable with the process, don’t hesitate to speak up. Your landlord or housing association should be accommodating and respectful of your needs.
Step 3: How long should it take for repairs to be made?
Once the problem is reported and assessed, your landlord is legally required to make the repairs within a reasonable amount of time.
If the repairs aren’t carried out within a reasonable time, it’s time to escalate things. That’s when the housing disrepair protocol can really come into play, ensuring your landlord takes the issue seriously.
Step 4: Keep paying your rent
One of the most common questions tenants ask when dealing with disrepair issues is whether they can withhold rent until the problem is fixed.
While it might seem like a natural response, withholding rent can lead to complications, including eviction or legal action.
It’s important to continue paying your rent as usual and remember your landlord can’t evict you for pursuing a claim, but they can evict you for not paying your rent.
Our housing disrepair team will be able to guide you on the best course of action, especially if you plan to pursue a housing disrepair claim in court.
Step 5: Taking further action if necessary
If your landlord or housing association still hasn’t made the repairs after giving them plenty of time, you can then pursue a housing disrepair claim.
Our housing disrepair team will be able to support you through the process, helping you get compensation for the distress and inconvenience caused by the disrepair. As well as repairs carried out to bring your property to an acceptable standard.
Tip: If you’re unsure where to start, or you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out for legal advice. Our team can help you understand your rights and provide the support you need to move forward with your claim.
Living in a home that’s not up to standard is frustrating, but you don’t have to deal with it alone. You can take action and ensure your home is safe, comfortable, and in good condition.
We are here to support you, every step of the way. You deserve a home that meets your needs, and we’re here to help you get there.
