It’s a situation many tenants find themselves in: the boiler still provides hot water, but the central heating has stopped working. While it might seem like you still have the essentials, the law says otherwise. Tenants are entitled to both heating and hot water, and if your landlord refuses to repair the problem, this can be classed as housing disrepair.
Is No Central Heating a Housing Disrepair Issue?
Yes. Having hot water but no central heating is still a serious fault. A home without proper heating is classed as unfit for living, especially during the colder months. Your landlord has a legal duty to keep the property in safe and habitable condition, which includes making sure the heating system works properly.
What Proof Do I Need?
To make a strong housing disrepair claim, you should gather evidence that shows the impact of having no central heating. Useful proof includes:
- Photos or videos of the boiler showing the fault.
- Room temperature readings, especially in winter.
- Photos of plug-in heaters being used.
- Higher electricity bills caused by portable heaters.
- GP letters or medical notes if health has been affected by the cold.
- Copies of complaints you made to your landlord about the heating.
Can I Get Compensation?
Yes, you may be entitled to compensation for damp and mould, higher energy bills, and the general inconvenience of living without heating. Compensation is usually calculated as a percentage of your rent for the time you were left without heating.
For example:
- If you pay £600 per month in rent (£7,200 per year).
- Compensation might be awarded at 20–25% of your rent for the period without heating.
- If the problem lasted three months, you could receive £360–£450.
- If it continued for nine months or more, it could push your claim to over £1,000.
What If My Landlord Refuses Repairs?
If your landlord ignores your complaints, you can bring a housing disrepair claim. Our team of housing disrepair solicitors can guide you through the claim process and help secure both the repairs and the compensation you deserve.
Final Word
Even if you still have hot water, living without central heating is unacceptable. Landlords are legally responsible for fixing this type of problem. If your landlord is refusing repairs, you don’t need to suffer in silence you may be able to make a housing disrepair claim and claim compensation.
