A Tenant’s Guide to Housing Disrepair Compensation
Living with mould in a rented property is more than just unpleasant — it’s dangerous. Mould is one of the most common issues in housing disrepair claims. In a 2023 survey by Shelter, over 60% of UK residents said they’ve experienced mould in their homes.
Between 2021 and 2022, English councils received over 20,000 complaints about poor housing conditions and a large number were about mould and damp.
If your landlord is ignoring problems like this, you may be entitled to housing disrepair compensation. This guide will walk you through:
- What causes mould
- The health risks
- Your legal rights
- How to make a successful disrepair claim
Understanding Mould in Rented Properties
What Causes Mould?
Mould grows in damp spaces —often due to:
- Leaking pipes or roofs: These add excess moisture into the home.
- Poor ventilation: This causes condensation and creates the perfect environment for mould.
- Rising damp: Moisture from the ground travels into walls and floors.
- Condensation from poor heating: Cold surfaces + moist air = mould growth.
If your home has mould, it is usually your landlord’s responsibility to fix it. If they fail to do so, you may be able to make a claim.
Health Risks from Mould
Living with mould in a rented property can cause:
- Asthma and respiratory problems: The WHO reports a 40% higher risk of asthma and 50% higher risk of infections in damp homes.
- Allergic reactions: Including sneezing, red eyes, itchy skin, and breathing problems.
- Mental health issues: Depression is 34–40% more likely in households affected by damp and mould.
If your landlord refuses to fix these issues, we can help you start a housing disrepair claim.
Legal Responsibilities of Landlords
Landlords in the UK are legally required to keep properties safe and liveable. If they ignore serious issues like mould, they’re breaking the law.
Key legislation:
- The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018
Landlords must keep homes free from hazards, including mould and damp. - The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985
Requires landlords to maintain the structure of the property including walls, windows, and roofs.
Awaab’s Law (Effective October 2025):
After the death of Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old who died from prolonged mould exposure, the government introduced Awaab’s Law.
Key rules under this new law:
- Landlords must investigate hazards within 14 days
- Start repairs within 7 days if the problem is serious
- Emergency repairs must be completed within 24 hours
This law will also classify mould as a Category 1 hazard, meaning landlords cannot blame tenants for lifestyle choices like drying clothes indoors.
How to Claim for Disrepair
If you’re dealing with mould in a rented property, here’s what to do:
Step 1: Collect Evidence
- Take clear, date-stamped photos of mould or damage
- Record how it affects your health, belongings, or day-to-day life
- Keep a log of when the mould first appeared and how it worsened
- Visit your GP for health concerns ask for a letter to support your claim
Step 2: Inform Your Landlord
- Send an email or letter detailing the problem
- Request repairs within a reasonable deadline
- Save copies of all communications
- Mention your rights under the Homes Act 2018
Step 3: Seek Legal Help
If your landlord refuses to act:
- Our team will connect you with housing disrepair solicitors
- A surveyor may inspect your home
- If you have a valid case, they’ll file a claim on your behalf
- You’ll receive an estimated compensation amount
- No win, no fee so you won’t pay anything unless your case succeeds
How Much Compensation Can I Claim?
Housing disrepair compensation depends on:
- How long the problem went unfixed
- The damage to your health and belongings
- The overall inconvenience caused
Even without Awaab’s Law in effect yet, most landlords are expected to act within 7–28 days after being notified. If they don’t, you may be entitled to compensation.
Disrepair Support: Helping Manchester Tenants Get Justice
At Disrepair Support Manchester, we specialise in mould and damp claims. Our team helps social housing and private tenants get the support and compensation they deserve.
FAQs
Q: How long do I have to make a claim?
A: You usually have up to six years to start a housing disrepair claim.
Q: Can I claim if I’m a private tenant?
A: Yes the law applies to both social and private landlords.
Q: What if my landlord blames me for the mould?
A: They can’t avoid repairs if mould is caused by disrepair. And under Awaab’s Law, mould will be classed as a health hazard no more blaming tenants.
Don’t Stay Silent Get the Help You Deserve
You don’t have to suffer in silence. If you’re living with mould in a rented property, we’re here to help you start your claim and secure compensation.
📞 Contact Disrepair Support today and begin your tenant claim journey.