Your Legal Rights for Housing Disrepair
UK housing law provides robust protections for tenants. Understanding your legal rights is the first step to claiming the compensation and repairs you deserve.
Key Legislation
Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018
Sections 9A-10, Landlord and Tenant Act 1985
Requires landlords to ensure properties are fit for human habitation throughout the tenancy. Covers 29 hazards including damp, mould, structural issues, and hazards under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
Section 11, Landlord and Tenant Act 1985
Section 11
Imposes an implied covenant on landlords to keep in repair and proper working order installations for space heating, water heating, sanitation, and supply of water, gas, and electricity.
Environmental Protection Act 1990
Sections 79-82
Provides for statutory nuisance claims where disrepair constitutes a nuisance or is prejudicial to health. Local authorities have a duty to inspect and serve abatement notices.
Awaab's Law (Social Housing Regulation Act 2023)
Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023
Following the tragic death of Awaab Ishak, this law requires social housing landlords to investigate and fix hazards within strict timeframes. Emergency hazards must be addressed within 24 hours.
Housing Act 2004
Parts 1-4
Introduced the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) replacing the old fitness standard. Local authorities can issue Improvement Notices and Emergency Remedial Actions.
What Your Landlord Must Do
Know Your Rights? Now Claim Them
The law is on your side. Let our expert solicitors enforce your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.