Housing disrepair is an issue that affects many tenants across the UK, and Fallowfield is no exception. Whether you are renting privately, from the council or through a housing association, your landlord has a legal responsibility to ensure your property is safe and habitable. Unfortunately, not all landlords meet this obligation, and tenants are often left to live in poor conditions for extended periods of time.
At Marley Solicitors, we work with tenants in Fallowfield and surrounding areas to protect their rights and help them secure the repairs and compensation they deserve. If your home is in a state of disrepair and your landlord is refusing to act, you do not have to suffer in silence. There are legal steps you can take, and we are here to support you through every stage of the process.
What is classed as housing disrepair?
Housing disrepair refers to any problem in a rented property that results from the landlord failing to carry out necessary maintenance or repairs. These problems can be both minor and major, and they often worsen over time when ignored. Some of the most common issues that fall under housing disrepair include:
- Damp, condensation, and mould growth.
- Leaking roofs, gutters or plumbing
- Cracked or unstable walls and ceilings
- Broken boilers, radiators or central heating
- Faulty electrics and lighting
- Pest infestations, such as mice or cockroaches
- Unsafe flooring, staircases or windows
- Rotting woodwork or structural damage
In some cases, these issues can be extremely dangerous, causing health problems or injuries to those living in the home. Dampening and mould, for example, can aggravate asthma and other respiratory conditions, especially in children and the elderly.
Your landlord’s legal responsibilities
Under UK law, landlords are required to maintain the condition of the properties they let out. This includes ensuring that the structure and exterior of the house are in good repair and that all gas, electricity, water, and sanitation systems are functioning properly.
The relevant legislation includes the Landlord and Tenant Act (1985), the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act (2018), and various housing standards set out by local authorities. Together, these laws place clear obligations on landlords to:
- Carry out necessary repairs within a reasonable timeframe after being notified
- Ensure the property is free from health and safety hazards
- Maintain heating, hot water, and kitchen facilities
- Prevent problems like damp, mould and leaks from developing or worsening
If a landlord fails to take action after being informed of a disrepair issue, they could be in breach of their legal duties, giving the tenant grounds for a formal complaint or legal claim.
Steps to take if your landlord is not responding
If you are dealing with disrepair in your rented home and your landlord is refusing to act, there are steps you should take to protect yourself and build a strong case:
- Report the issue in writing – Always send a written report (email or letter) to your landlord or letting agent explaining the problem. Include photographs and dates if possible.
- Keep records – Save all correspondence with your landlord, take regular photos of the damage, and keep notes on how long the issue has gone unresolved.
- Allow access – If your landlord arranges an inspection or wants to carry out repairs, allow reasonable access unless you feel unsafe. Denying access could weaken your claim.
- Speak to a solicitor – A housing solicitor can assess your situation, advise you on your rights and help you make a claim for repairs and compensation.
Can I claim compensation for housing disrepair?
Yes, you may be entitled to compensation if your landlord’s failure to carry out repairs has caused you inconvenience, health problems or financial loss. Compensation amounts vary depending on the severity of the disrepair, how long it lasted and how it affected you.
You may be able to claim for:
- Damage to personal belongings, such as clothes or furniture
- Increased heating costs due to poor insulation or broken systems
- Medical issues caused or made worse by the disrepair
- Time spent living in unsuitable or unsafe conditions
- Loss of enjoyment or use of part of your home
At Marley Solicitors, we help tenants in Fallowfield calculate the full extent of their losses and make sure they receive the maximum compensation they are entitled to. Many of our cases are handled on a no win, no fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we are successful.
Why tenants in Fallowfield trust Marley Solicitors
We have a strong track record of supporting clients across Manchester and have developed a particular understanding of the housing issues that affect residents in Fallowfield. Whether you are a student, a family member, or a long-term resident, we provide clear professional legal advice that puts your needs first.
Our team is approachable and experienced, and we are committed to helping you improve your living conditions as quickly as possible. We aim to resolve cases without the need for court proceedings where possible, but we will not hesitate to escalate matters if your landlord continues to ignore their obligations.
Get help with housing disrepair today
If you are living in disrepair in Fallowfield and your landlord is not taking action, you do not have to face it alone. Contact Marley Solicitors for expert advice and support. We are ready to fight on your behalf to ensure your home is safe, comfortable and legally compliant.
