The UK’s cost of living crisis is causing grave concern across the nation as millions of people struggle to compete with inflation and rising energy costs. The crisis is also expected to create a surge in housing disrepair claims from UK renters, as landlords are faced with repair and maintenance costs above the rate of inflation.
What is housing disrepair?
Firstly, let’s explain what housing disrepair actually is. A home may be deemed to be in disrepair if the landlord or home owner has failed to maintain the structure and exterior of the property. Legally speaking, the definition of disrepair is that there is damage that needs to be put right. When a rental property deteriorates and requires major repairs before it reaches a point where it is considered safe and suitable to live in, this is considered to be housing disrepair.
Examples of housing disrepair
Some of the most common disrepair problems that occur in rental properties are:
- Mould and dampness
- Leaks, flooding and water damage
- Insect infestations
- Defective roofing or gutters
- Defective boilers and heating
- Defective windows and doors
- Defective brick work and cracks
- Dangerous electrical wiring
How will the cost of living crisis affect housing disrepair claims?
A recent report which analysed inflation data, found that repair and maintenance costs facing landlords surged in 2021 and 2022 and are continuing to rise above the rate of inflation. For example, inflation stood at 12.3% in June 2022, yet the annual price increase for repair and maintenance materials peaked in April 2022, at 16.8%.
As landlords are now facing much larger maintenance costs, the concern is that many will put off or refuse to carry out repairs causing homes to deteriorate over time.
What can I do if my landlord refuses to carry out repairs and maintenance on my rental property?
The good news for renters is that despite the rise in maintenance costs, your rights will not change. Landlords must continue to be able to maintain their homes and provide vital services to residents and tenants.
If your landlord refuses to make the repairs, you do have the option to take legal action against them. In this situation, we advise that you gather evidence to support your case.
In the first instance, you should write to your landlord as soon as you notice a problem which requires attention. If a letting agent manages the property on your landlord’s behalf, write to them as well. Keep a copy of the letter for your records, you may need it at a later date.
Other ways you can gather evidence include:
- Taking photos of the damage, particularly if it worsens over time
- Keep any texts, emails or letters of correspondence between yourself and your landlord/letting agent
- Keep any receipts you may have if you have had to replace or repair damaged items within the home
- Ask for letters from your GP if the problem has made you unwell
- Ensure you have a copy of your tenancy agreement
How can I make a housing disrepair claim?
If your rental home is suffering from housing disrepair due to negligence by your landlord, you may be entitled to claim compensation. Here at TEN Legal, our team of specialist solicitors can support and advise you throughout the process of making a claim.
We act on a no win, no fee basis, which means you will not pay a penny unless you win your claim. Should your claim be successful, our cut is capped at a maximum of 25%.