Living in a rented property that’s in disrepair can be stressful, particularly for families with children. Issues such as damp, mould, faulty heating, leaks, or unsafe electrical systems impact your quality of life and can also pose serious health risks. When landlords ignore requests for repairs, it can leave tenants feeling powerless. However, there are clear steps families can take to ensure their homes are made safe and liveable again.
Know Your Rights as a Tenant
The law in England requires landlords to ensure that rented homes are fit for human habitation. Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, tenants have the right to live in properties that are safe, healthy, and free from serious disrepair. Landlords are legally obliged to carry out repairs to:
- The structure and exterior of the property (e.g. walls, roof, windows, and doors)
- Installations for water, gas, electricity, sanitation, and heating
- Common areas in a building (if renting a flat or maisonette)
If your landlord is ignoring requests for repairs that fall into these categories, you have a legal basis to take further action.
Report the Problem in Writing
It’s essential to report any issues in writing, even if you’ve already spoken to your landlord. An email or letter provides a clear record of when the problem was first raised. Be specific about the issue, include dates, and attach photographs if possible. This evidence can be crucial if you need to escalate the matter later.
Allow a Reasonable Time for Response
Landlords must be given a reasonable opportunity to carry out the necessary repairs. What is considered ‘reasonable’ depends on the severity of the problem. For instance, a broken boiler in winter should be dealt with far more quickly than a cracked window pane in summer.
Keep a log of all communication and any visits from tradespeople or contractors, noting what work was carried out and when. If nothing is done after a fair amount of time, you may need to escalate things further.
Involve the Local Council
If your landlord continues to ignore your repair requests, you can contact your local council’s Environmental Health team. They have powers to inspect your property and, if they find serious health or safety hazards, can issue formal notices requiring your landlord to make repairs.
In some cases, the council may serve a ‘Housing Health and Safety Rating System’ (HHSRS) notice. This compels the landlord to carry out specific improvements or face penalties, including fines or legal action.
Consider Withholding Rent – With Caution
Many tenants wonder if they can stop paying rent if repairs aren’t done. While this might seem fair, it’s a risky move. Withholding rent could put you at risk of eviction, even if you’re in the right about the disrepair.
Instead of stopping payments altogether, you may be able to carry out the repair yourself and deduct the cost from your rent, but only if the correct legal process is followed. This includes giving written notice, obtaining multiple quotes, and notifying your landlord before going ahead. Seek independent advice before taking this step.
Seek Legal Advice
If your landlord refuses to act and the property remains unsafe, it may be time to speak to a legal expert. Housing disrepair claims can be a headache, and having professional support ensures that your rights are properly protected. Some solicitors specialise in this area and can help families access repairs or even compensation for damage to belongings or health problems caused by the disrepair.
For example, families living in the North West may look at what housing disrepair solicitors Liverpool has to offer, where local knowledge can be especially valuable in following regional housing authority procedures.
Don’t Suffer in Silence
Living in poor housing conditions can affect every part of family life, from children’s health to educational outcomes and mental wellbeing. While it may feel daunting to challenge a landlord, especially if you’re concerned about eviction or rent increases, you don’t have to deal with it alone.
Tenants have legal protections for a reason. By documenting issues, following proper steps, and knowing where to turn for help, families can ensure their landlords are held accountable and that their homes are brought up to a safe, liveable standard.