If you’re living in unsafe conditions and your landlord won’t take action, you might feel stuck, but you’re not alone.
Tenants have legal rights, and there are clear steps you can take to report your landlord and get the issue resolved.
At Liberay Legal, we support council and housing association tenants dealing with housing disrepair.
In this guide, we’ll explain what counts as “unsafe,” how to report it, and which authorities can help.
What is considered an unsafe living condition?
Unsafe or hazardous living conditions are more than just an inconvenience; they can put your health and safety at serious risk.
Common examples include:
- Damp and mould, especially if it affects your breathing or causes illness
- Structural issues, like unstable ceilings, cracked walls, or leaking roofs
- Faulty electrics or gas, posing fire or carbon monoxide risks
- Broken heating or hot water systems, especially during winter
- Infestations, like rats, mice, or cockroaches
- Blocked drains, sewage leaks, or unsafe water supply
- Broken locks, defective windows, or doors, affecting your home’s security
These issues should be taken seriously. Your landlord has a legal duty to fix them within a reasonable timeframe.
How to report unsafe housing conditions
1: Notify your landlord in writing
Before reporting to external authorities, give your landlord a chance to fix the issue.
- Write or email them, clearly describing the problem
- Include photos, videos, or dates to show how long it’s been happening
- Keep a record of all communication
Legally, they must respond within a reasonable time (usually 14–28 days, depending on severity).
2: Escalate to environmental health
If your landlord ignores your complaint or fails to fix the issue, contact your local council’s Environmental Health department. They can:
- Inspect your property
- Issue a formal notice to your landlord
- Take legal action if the landlord doesn’t comply
Use the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) to assess if your home poses a risk. If serious risks are found, the council can serve an Improvement Notice or even prohibit the property from being used.
You can usually report unsafe housing through your local council’s website or by calling them directly.
3: Get legal advice
If unsafe conditions are affecting your health, causing damage to your belongings, or your landlord is refusing to act, you may have grounds for legal action.
Liberay Legal can help you:
- Force your landlord to make the repairs
- Claim compensation for suffering and losses
- Take legal steps on a No Win, No Fee basis
Who can you report to?
| Issue | Who to Contact |
| Health/safety hazards | Environmental Health (local council) |
| Unresponsive landlord | Solicitor (e.g. Liberay Legal) or the council |
| Rent disputes or harassment | Tenancy Relations Officer (council) or solicitor |
You don’t have to just put up with it
You have the right to live in a safe and healthy home. If your landlord fails to meet their legal duties, you don’t have to put up with it.
Liberay Legal is here to help you take action. Whether you need urgent repairs or want to claim compensation, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Contact us today.
