Updated October 2026
In short: Tenants can claim compensation if a landlord fails to carry out repairs within a reasonable time after being told about them. Compensation can cover inconvenience, damage to belongings and sometimes health impacts, often calculated as a percentage of rent for the period affected. Most disputes are avoidable with prompt reporting and repairs.
| Common disrepair issue | Landlord duty |
|---|---|
| Damp and mould | Fix causes such as leaks or poor ventilation; respond promptly |
| Heating and hot water failure | Repair installations quickly |
| Leaking roof or windows | Repair structure and exterior |
| Electrical or gas faults | Repair and keep safe; follow safety rules |
| Pests from structural defects | Fix entry points and defects |
For tenants: making a claim
| 1 | Report in writing Give the landlord notice of the problem, with photos. |
| 2 | Allow reasonable time Urgent issues should be dealt with quickly. |
| 3 | Keep records Photos, messages, receipts and any medical evidence. |
| 4 | Escalate Council environmental health, the landlord's redress scheme, or legal advice. |
| 5 | Pre-action protocol For court claims, follow the housing conditions protocol. |
For landlords: avoiding claims
- Easy, recorded repair reporting
- Clear timescales and updates
- Regular inspections to spot problems early
- Proactive damp and ventilation checks
- Keep records of every repair
Since May 2026, the Renters' Rights Act brings new standards for private rented homes into force in stages, including rules on hazards such as damp and mould. Expect stricter expectations on response times.
How Fraser Bond helps landlords
- Repair management with tracked timescales
- Regular inspections
- Damp and mould prevention
- Records that defend against unfounded claims
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