UK tenants are entitled to a safe, well-maintained home, but what happens when your landlord refuses to make essential repairs? From broken heating to persistent mould, neglected repairs can make life unbearable. At The Tenant Protection Scheme, we’re here to help you enforce your rights and ensure your home is habitable.
1. Your Right to a Safe Home
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords must maintain a property’s structure, plumbing, heating, and electrical systems. This includes addressing damp, mould, or pest issues that pose health risks. If your landlord refuses to fix these, they’re breaching their legal duty, and you have the right to take action.
2. Report the Issue Properly
Start by reporting the problem in writing—email works best as it creates a timestamped record. Be specific: describe the issue (e.g., “The boiler has been broken since January 5th”), include photos or videos, and set a reasonable deadline (e.g., 14 days for non-urgent repairs, 24-48 hours for emergencies like no heating). Keep copies of all correspondence for evidence
3. Escalate if You’re Ignored
If your landlord fails to act, escalate the issue to your local council’s housing or environmental health department. They can inspect the property under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) and issue an improvement notice, forcing your landlord to make repairs. This step also protects you from retaliatory eviction under the Deregulation Act 2015.
4. Get Legal Support When Needed
Living in unsafe conditions or facing repeated inaction isn’t acceptable. Legal support can help without risking retaliation. The Tenant Protection Scheme offers free consultations, helping you understand your options. We can draft formal letters, liaise with your landlord, or guide you through court action to enforce repairs and seek compensation if needed.
Conclusion
Repairs aren’t a favor—they’re a legal requirement. You deserve a safe, healthy living space, and The Tenant Protection Scheme is here to ensure that happens. Contact us at info@tenantprotection.co.uk or visit our Contact Us page for expert support today!