Moreover, tenants have a clear legal right to live in a safe, well-maintained property. When landlords fail to fix serious issues such as dangerous cracks and leaks, damp, or mould after being notified, they may be in breach of their legal obligations. Consequently, this article explains your legal right to request repairs, how compensation may be available if poor living conditions affect your health, and when you can make a housing disrepair claim.
Know your legal right to take action over housing disrepair. Learn how claims work, what evidence you need, and when compensation may be available.
Furthermore,Cracks spreading across walls. Water pouring in from a damaged roof. Floors that feel uneven underfoot. These are not minor maintenance issues — they are warning signs of major structural disrepair. Know your legal right to structural repair.
Consequently,ِAt Claim Today Solicitors, under the leadership of DS Bal, we regularly help tenants living in properties where landlords have ignored serious structural defects for months — sometimes years. When landlords fail to act, the law allows tenants to pursue a major structural disrepair claim to secure repairs and compensation.
What Is Major Structural Disrepair?
Major structural disrepair affects the safety, stability, and integrity of a building. Unlike cosmetic issues, these defects impact the structure itself and often worsen over time.
Common examples include:
- Large or widening cracks in walls or ceilings
- Leaking or collapsed roofs
- Structural movement or subsidence
- Rotting beams, joists, or roof timbers
- Severe damp caused by structural failure
These problems can make a property unsafe and unfit for habitation.
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The Warning Signs Landlords Commonly Ignore
Many landlords dismiss early signs of major structural disrepair as “normal wear and tear.” In reality, these warning signs often require urgent investigation:
Identifying Dangerous Cracks and Leaks
Cracks that widen, reappear after repair, or run diagonally may indicate movement or foundation problems.
Ongoing Roof Leaks
Temporary patch repairs often fail to address underlying roof damage, leading to rot, damp, and mould.
Sagging or Uneven Floors
This may signal weakened joists or long-term water damage affecting the structure.
Damp That Never Clears
If damp persists despite ventilation or redecorating, it may be linked to structural defects.
Ignoring these signs can significantly increase repair costs — and landlord liability.
Landlord Legal Duties for Structural Repairs
Under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords are legally responsible for repairing and maintaining:
- The structure and exterior of the property
- Walls, roofs, foundations, and drains
- Structural elements that affect habitability
The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 further requires rental properties to be safe and fit to live in at all times.
Failure to act after being notified puts landlords at clear legal risk in a major structural disrepair claim.
Claim Time Limit: When You Can Still Start Your Case
When You Can Make a Major Structural Disrepair Claim
You may have a valid claim if:
- You reported the problem to your landlord
- Repairs were delayed or ignored
- The damage worsened over time
- Your health, safety, or belongings were affected
High-value claims often involve prolonged neglect, repeated complaints, or evidence that landlords attempted superficial repairs instead of proper structural work.
https://www.gov.uk/private-renting/repairs
How a Major Structural Disrepair Claim Works
Claims involving structural damage are more complex and usually follow these steps:
1. Notification and Evidence
Tenants notify the landlord and gather evidence such as photos, videos, and medical records if health is affected.
2. Independent Surveyor Report
A qualified surveyor assesses the cause, severity, and repair costs of the structural damage.
3. Legal Action
Solicitors formally demand repairs and compensation based on surveyor findings.
4. Compensation Assessment
Compensation may include:
- Loss of enjoyment of the property
- Damage to belongings
- Health-related impacts
- Stress and inconvenience
5. Settlement or Court Proceedings
Most landlords settle once expert evidence is presented, but court action is available when necessary.
Why These Claims Are Often High-Value
Major structural disrepair claims typically result in higher compensation because:
- Repairs are expensive and specialist-led
- Damage affects multiple rooms or the entire property
- Living conditions may be unsafe or uninhabitable
- Problems often last for long periods
The longer the landlord ignores the issue, the stronger the claim becomes.
Why Choose Claim Today Solicitors?
Claim Today Solicitors specialise in complex housing disrepair claims, including severe structural cases. We:
- Work with expert housing surveyors
- Act on a No Win, No Fee basis
- Push for urgent repairs and fair compensation
- Have a proven track record under DS Bal’s leadership
We understand that structural disrepair is not just about buildings — it’s about protecting people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all cracks considered major structural disrepair?
No. Small hairline cracks may be cosmetic, but large, spreading, or recurring cracks often indicate serious structural problems.
Can I claim while still living in the property?
Yes. Most tenants remain in their homes while pursuing a major structural disrepair claim.
How long does a structural disrepair claim take?
Complex claims may take longer, but many settle once surveyor evidence is obtained.
What compensation could I receive?
Compensation depends on severity and duration, but structural disrepair claims are often among the highest-value housing disrepair cases.
Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs
If your landlord has ignored cracked walls, roof leaks, or other serious defects, you may be entitled to pursue a major structural disrepair claim.
Contact Claim Today Solicitors today to secure repairs, protect your health, and claim the compensation you deserve.
