Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Uninhabitable homes
There's no general legal duty, but insurance and the tenancy often help
Insuranceloss of rent / alt. accommodation
Rentmay stop if uninhabitable
Councilhomelessness help
Repairslandlord must do them
In short: In England, private landlords don't have a general legal duty to rehouse tenants while repairs are done. But if the home becomes uninhabitable (for example after a fire or flood), the landlord's buildings insurance often covers alternative accommodation, many tenancies suspend rent while the property can't be lived in, and the council may help if you'd otherwise be homeless.
| Situation | Who usually helps |
|---|---|
| Fire or flood | Landlord's insurance (alternative accommodation cover), plus your contents insurance |
| Major repairs making the home unsafe | Negotiate with landlord; rent abatement; council if homeless |
| Damp and mould making rooms unusable | Landlord must repair; compensation may be due |
| Social housing tenant | Social landlords often have decant policies |
What to do
Frequently asked questions
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Do I pay rent if I can't live in the property?
Many tenancies suspend rent if the property is uninhabitable due to insured damage. Check your agreement.
Can I claim hotel costs?
Possibly through insurance or as compensation for disrepair. Keep receipts.
Does the landlord have to find me somewhere?
Not in general for private tenancies, but insurance often funds it.
Landlord facing a major repair?
We coordinate insurers, contractors and tenants for you.
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