The Health Risks You Need to Know
When your home never seems to warm up – no matter how high you turn the heating or how many jumpers you pile on – it’s more than just uncomfortable. It can actually be harmful to your health.
We regularly hear from people living in council or housing association homes that are far too cold. Whether it’s due to poor insulation, broken heating, or structural disrepair, you shouldn’t have to suffer in silence.
Here’s what you need to know about the health risks of living in a cold home, and how to take action if your landlord isn’t stepping up.
The cold doesn’t just make you miserable, it can make you ill
We all know what it’s like to feel a bit run down in winter. But when your home is constantly cold, the effects go far beyond a bit of discomfort.
1. Respiratory problems
Cold, damp environments are the perfect breeding ground for mould and mildew – all of which can seriously affect your lungs.
If you or your children are constantly coughing, wheezing, or struggling with conditions like asthma, your home environment could be making things worse.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent cough or chest infections
- Shortness of breath
- Worsening asthma symptoms
- Irritated eyes, nose, or throat
It’s not only people with pre-existing conditions—prolonged exposure to cold and damp air can affect healthy individuals, too.
2. Circulatory issues
When your home is cold for long periods, your body has to work harder to stay warm. This can put extra strain on your heart and blood vessels, which can be especially dangerous for older adults or those with underlying health issues.
The risks can include:
- High blood pressure
- Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes
- Worsening of arthritis and other joint problems
We’re not here to scare you, but we are here to tell you the truth. Living in a cold home can be a health hazard, and it’s not something you should have to just put up with.
Who’s responsible for fixing it?
If you’re in a council or housing association property, your landlord is legally responsible for making sure your home is safe and fit to live in. That includes things like:
- Working heating systems
- Fixing draughts, broken windows, or faulty radiators
- Preventing damp and mould
If they’ve failed to carry out necessary repairs, or ignored your complaints, you could have a housing disrepair claim. This is where we come in…
You deserve a warm, safe home
We know that many people feel nervous about making a legal claim, especially if they’ve never done anything like it before.
But let us be clear: this isn’t about being “difficult” or asking for too much. It’s about your basic right to live in a safe and healthy environment.
At Liberay Legal, we support everyday people who are tired of being ignored. You don’t need to know legal jargon or have a stack of paperwork. We’re here to walk you through everything, step by step, with honesty and care.
We’ll listen to your situation, tell you honestly if you have a strong case, and take action if your landlord has failed in their duty.
No pressure, no hidden fees—just straightforward legal advice from a team that genuinely cares.
If your home is too cold and your landlord isn’t doing enough, you don’t have to keep suffering through it. We’re here to help you fight for the living conditions you deserve.
Let’s talk
We’re your ally in housing disrepair claims. If you’re living in a freezing home and not being heard, reach out to us. We’ll listen, we’ll advise, and we’ll fight alongside you.
