This guide explains factors that may be relevant if a housing disrepair claim is assessed. It is not a compensation calculator and does not estimate, predict or promise any figure.
How long the problem has lasted
The length of time you have lived with unresolved disrepair is often considered. A longer period may be more significant, particularly after the landlord has been told about the issue.
How serious the problem is
Hazards that affect health, safety or the basic use of the home (for example extensive mould, no heating, unsafe electrics or structural issues) may carry more weight than a minor inconvenience.
Rooms affected
Whether the problem is confined to one area or affects several rooms, including bedrooms or living spaces, may be relevant.
Loss of use of the home
If a room cannot be used, or sleeping and day-to-day living are significantly disrupted, that impact may be taken into account.
Damage to belongings
Damage to furniture, clothing or other belongings caused by the disrepair is a separate type of loss from the effect on the home itself. Keep photos and any replacement costs.
Additional expenditure
Extra costs you have had to incur because of the problem (for example dehumidifiers, alternative heating, or replacing damaged items) may be relevant if they can be evidenced. This is not an invitation to claim costs that were not reasonably incurred.
Whether the problem remains unresolved
Ongoing disrepair after notice to the landlord is often treated differently from a problem that has already been fully and permanently put right.
