Category: Housing Disrepair Claims

The Top Five Most Common Housing Disrepairs

Posted on June 17, 2021 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Housing Disrepair Claims, Uncategorised

Being faced with housing disrepairs can be a daunting prospect, especially if you live in a council home. If the damages are severe, you may find that the repair work needed can be extensive. In some cases, it can take more than a few months to fix. That’s why it is essential that you landlord is ready to work with you in order to have your damages fixed in a timely manner.

Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Landlords can be tricky to deal with. In some cases, they may ultimately ignore your requests for help. Worse still, there may be times when your landlord tries to stick you with the bill of these repairs. Let’s be clear: your landlord is responsible for the damages that happen to your council home. When something goes wrong, they need to have it fix. If they fail to do this then they could be guilty of negligence.

There are many different types of housing disrepairs that you can encounter during your stay in a council home. Some are more common than others. Make sure to keep an eye out for small damages. These can quickly turn into more severe problems that will require extensive treatment. Don’t forget, if your landlord refuses to help with these damages, you can make a Housing Disrepair Claim in order to ask for compensation and for their co-operation in getting the damages fixed. Gowing Law Solicitors can help with this. Call us on 0800 041 8350 or click the link below to visit our website:

The Basics of Housing Disrepairs & Landlords

Before we talk about the most common housing disrepairs, let’s take a moment to talk about the responsibility of a landlord. When you move into a council house or a property owned by the housing association, it’s important to understand that your landlord is responsible for the majority of your property. They are responsible for your safety when you live in your house and need to make sure that it is habitable for both you and your family. This is known as your landlord’s “duty of care”. If they refuse to help you then this is a sign of negligence, especially as they may be putting you at risk of an accident.

Some examples of the areas of your home that your landlord is responsible include:

If there are problems in your house that require fixing, you should report them to your landlord as quickly as possible. That way the damage can be sorted and you can get your house back to a liveable condition. Make sure to send the alert to your landlord in both writing and in an email format. If they ignore you, or demand that you pay for the damages, that’s when it’s time to start making preparations to make a housing disrepairs claim. This includes documenting evidence for your solicitor to use during your settlement agreement.

What could make me eligible for compensation?

The main priority of any home owner is to ensure that their home is habitable for themselves and their family. That’s why it’s understandable that you will want the disrepairs sorted by your landlord as soon as possible. If these disrepairs have been left for a long time, there is a chance that you could suffer from damages that affect your quality of life. It is these damages that will make you eligible for making a Housing Disrepairs compensation claim. Take a look at the infographic below to get a better idea about the three main categories of eligibility:

If any of the following have happened to you, you could be eligible for a pay-out to compensate you for your damages. Keep in mind that you may have experienced more than just physical damages or damages to your belongings. You may also have experienced emotional damages. The stress of the situation may have made a current mental health condition worse, or perhaps your landlord is making you feel anxious about the disrepairs altogether. Either way, the extent of your damages could increase the amount of compensation that you are owed.

Housing Disrepairs: The most common problems in a council house

When it comes to housing disrepairs, it’s important to understand that some are going to be worse than others. Whether you are suffering from small damages to your wall or perhaps have lost electricity in your house or some other large hazard, you are going to have to inform your landlord as quickly as possible to get the repairs sorted. Even during the Covid-19 lockdown, they were still required to do an inspection to find out what repairs needed to be made to fix the damages. They may have even sent over a qualified repair worker to check out the damages. Some types of disrepairs are going to be more common than others. That’s why we are going to take a little time now to address the top five most common housing disrepairs you may find inside a council home or a property provided by the housing association.

1. Mould and Damp

Unfortunately, a lot of the council properties in the UK were created in the 1950’s or 1980’s. That means there is a higher chance that they are going to have asbestos in them or suffer from a damp or mould problem. A recent investigation by ITV has shown that there is a mould and damp with the majority of council properties across the UK. Unfortunately, in most cases, landlords will simply say the way to deal with mould and damp is to keep the flat well-ventilated and to make sure that you open your doors and windows to help with the problem. However, they don’t send over the appropriate repairmen to go to the root cause of the mould. That means it will keep on coming back time and time again.

Black mould and fungus can cause serious health problems, especially if you are already suffering from asthma or bronchitis. Worse still, it can spread to clothes and your belongings. That’s why it’s crucial to get rid of it as quickly as possible. If your property is damaged because of the mould, you could be owed compensation for your losses.

2. Pests, Infestations and Vermin

It can be embarrassing to have an infestation problem in your home. Even if it’s just a single rat that lives in your home, there is a chance that it could spread disease if it bites you, your other family members or leaves its droppings around the house. Of course, there are other types of infestations. This includes fleas, bedbugs, mice, flies and bugs in general. Sometimes, if there is a dead animal on your property, this can attract vermin, in particular flies and fleas, to your home. It can be difficult to live in these types of properties and it’s likely that you may end up getting sick due to the infestations. That’s why your landlord needs to involve pest control as quickly as possible to get it resolved.

3. Leaks and Flooding

Whether you live in a flat or a council house, if a pipe bursts, your gutter is clogged or the plumbing is faulty, it is likely that you could experience a leak that could lead to flooding or water damage. Not only could this damage your personal property, but it can also damage the house itself. This can start off with it just being staining on the ceiling or walls. However, these can develop into mould, cracks and damp if it’s not treated as quickly as possible. As we said before, mould and damp can cause serious health problems. That’s why you need to let your lawyer see the damages. You can also try to have a repair team locate the leak and repair the damages. The faster it is sorted, the less likely it is that you will experience damp or further flooding in the future.

4. Cracks in the external/internal structure

Sadly, as a house ages, it’s very likely that it’s going to experience some cracks or structure disrepair. If you spot a crack in your wall, ceiling or perhaps a small hole or broken segment, we would recommend that you speak to your landlord as quickly as possible. A structure problem could have a serious effect on the safety of the building as a whole. That’s why it is needs to be assessed and sorted as fast as possible.

Not only does it indicate that additional damage is just on the horizon, cracks and holes are the perfect place for mould and fungus to grow. This could weaken the structure of your home and cause additional damage. By alerting your landlord quickly, you can help them get the defect repaired. They will appreciate avoiding having to pay a large amount of money for a repair. It will also be less of a headache for you in the long run, as you will not have repair workers coming in and out of your house for a long time!

Keep don’t forget that cracks can also start to happen on the external structures as well, including your roof and outside walls. Sometimes this could be due to general weather or exposure, however in other times it could even be due to plant life. Speak to your solicitor to get these damages assessed as quickly as possible.

5. Faulty Electricity

Faulty electrical wiring, outlets and appliances are some of the most dangerous disrepairs in a tenant’s home. Whilst it’s one thing for a light bulb to go out, if the real problem is the electrical outlet, there is a chance that you could be shocked or suffer from burns that need a hospital trip to fix. It’s your landlord’s responsibility to ensure that all of the objects in your home are safe. This includes being able to hide away wiring. You should also ensure that you understand how to handle the electrical products in your home. This type of problem may seem small, but it can get worse, especially if you have small children living in your council home. Don’t leave it to get worse. Speak to your landlord to get it sorted as quickly as possible.

Gowing Law Solicitors can help you with your Housing Disrepairs Claim

Here at Gowing Law Solicitors, we are proud that we are able to help our clients all over the UK. We understand that housing disrepairs can be difficult to deal with on your own. That’s why if you’re thinking about making a claim, our law firm is here to support you through it. Our specialists can offer you free advice and consultations to get you started. If you are happy to move forward with your claim, we can offer you our services on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means you will always come out on top and will never need to pay any hidden fees. Instead, you will only need to pay our lawyers for their services if they win your claim for you. So, what’s stopping you from getting started?

Contact Gowing Law today by phoning 0800 041 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk. or by using our claim’s checker. One of our specialists will be in contact to answer any additional questions you may have.

Learn more about Housing Disrepairs

Don’t forget that if you want to learn more about Housing Disrepairs Claims, our law blog is the place to get started. We update it every week with brand new content about legal claims, seasonal events, competitions and giveaways. So, make sure to keep checking back to see what our latest updates are. If you want to send in a suggestion for our blog, feel free to do so by emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk. You can also follow our social media to see what we have been up to recently.

We look forward to seeing you in our next blog.

The Top Five Most Shocking Housing Disrepair Statistics in the UK

Posted on June 10, 2021 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Covid-19, Housing Disrepair Claims, Uncategorised

A Housing Disrepair can happen at any time and to any type of home owner. We understand that these type of problems can be extremely frustrating. After all, things in your home break down and you will take the necessary steps to have them fixed. But what would you do if you lived in a council house and found out that your landlord was making the appropriate fixes? Worse still, your landlord may insist that as you lived in the house during the time of the damages, you should be responsible for any repair fees. That is completely out of line, especially if you live in a council property or a property from the housing association. It is the responsibility of your landlord to finance any repairs and make sure you are living in suitable environment.

ITV has proven that there is a housing scandal going on right now. That’s why if you are currently living with Housing Disrepairs, you could be eligible for compensation if you decide to make a Housing Disrepair Claim with Gowing Law Solicitors. This blog is going to discuss some of the worst Housing Disrepair statistics in the UK right now. However, don’t forget that if you want help with your own compensation claim, Gowing Law Solicitors will be here to provide you free advice and consultations. Call us today on 0800 041 8350 or use the button below to visit our website:

Tell me more about Housing Disrepair Claims

Gowing Law does have a blog dedicated to this topic, however are happy to catch you up on the basics of Housing Disrepair Claims before we jump into the statistics. When you live in a council house or property from the housing association, the majority of the property is going to fall under the responsibility of your landlord. This includes any external or internal structures, security, mould and damp, fire safety, water, heating, sanitation and essential furniture. Occasionally, you may find that these areas of your home may breakdown or need repair. That’s why you should report these damages to your landlord.

Your landlord owes you a “duty of care”. Ultimately, this means that they are responsible for your safety when you are living in the residence. If they ignore your requests for assistance, refuse to pay for damages or demand that you pay for the repairs, this could be a sign of negligence, especially if you get hurt due to the state of disrepair. This is when you should consider making a Housing Disrepair Claim. You could be eligible for compensation if your claim falls into one of three categories:

Housing Disrepair Categories:

Your claim can fall into more than one of these categories, however, keep in mind that you will have to make your claim before you leave your residence. You must also keep on paying rent or else there is a chance that your landlord could make a counter claim in order to evict you from the residence. The best way to discern whether or not you could be owed compensation is to speak to your lawyer for more information.

With that being said, let’s jump into some of the more shocking facts about housing disrepairs. They are guaranteed to shock you about the state of council housing all over the UK. If you are in a council home that is in an extreme state of disrepair, it’s important that you speak with a lawyer as quickly as possible.

1. The English Housing Survey has shown that there are 76,814 “non-decent” properties in the UK

This study was undertaken last March by the English Housing Survey, and showed that a high amount of council owed properties were in a state of disrepair. Overall, this was a major rise in disrepairs by around 5,500 homes since 2019. Worse still, it is 6,500 more properties since the survey taken in 2018. It has been speculated that this has been due to budget cuts by the UK government and a lack of housing available for residents to safely move into quickly.

Over the last year, residents may have been forced to stay in these types of residents due to the lockdown and pandemic. This may have had an extreme effect on their mental health, due to stress and anxiety about the damages, but also personal injuries. For instance, if they were forced to live in a house full of mould or damp, there is a chance that this could cause breathing problems or enhance respiratory problems. A personal injury experienced due to the disrepairs could increase the amount of compensation that is owed from the landlord.

Take a look at the case study below for a better idea of how “non-decent” properties can affect their residents:

2. One in Seven Council Homes do not meet the National Standard

As we stated previously, all council homes provided by the housing association or rented out by landlord must adhere to strict health and safety standard. This means they have to be in decent repair, be free from any serious hazards, contain modern facilities and have workable heating and insulation. If there are consistent failures that reoccur in the property, for instance, if there is a mould problem or the electricity does not work, it is likely that the property will not be put up for rent. The same could be said if the property has a not been upgraded in a very long time, so does not contain modern necessities.

Around 1 in 7 homes are failing this national standard and yet are still on the market for people to rent as council homes. If you are forced to live in this type of home, you could be eligible for compensation. After all, you could get hurt or the state of your home could have an impact on your general quality of life. Speak to a solicitor quickly to find out more information about making a Housing Disrepair Claim.

3. Damp/ Mould issues are some of the most common problems in Council Houses

If your council house is suffering from mould problems, know that you are not alone. It is estimated that around 205,000 council estates suffer from mould in at least one of the rooms.

Mould and damp issues can cause serious respiratory problems and can make issues like Asthma and Bronchitis much, much worse. Mould can also leave a room feeling extremely damp and uncomfortable to live in. It have a very distinct smell and can ruin your wall-paper. Mould can even stain your clothes and furniture. You could make a claim for damaged belongings. Just keep in mind that they will be replaced by second-hand products that you will be expected to find.

4. 48% of people in council houses feel ignored about their Housing Disrepair issues

According to Shelter, a homelessness charity, around 48% of families and people in council housing do not feel safe in their own homes. Instead, they feel as if the disrepairs have threatened their safety. However they have no means of getting their landlord to listen to them. Unfortunately, landlords and housing associations tend to blame the tenant for any damages. Therefore, they need to pay for any damages that occur. Overall, this can make the resident feel small and worried about the damages. They may feel as if they are fully responsible for everything that has gone wrong and therefore may need to pay for it. The landlord may even be expecting the resident to pay for it.

Ultimately, this should not happen. If a housing disrepair does occur then it is the responsibility of the landlord can have it fixed. Gowing Law’s solicitors can speak to your landlord on your behalf. That way you don’t need to feel threatened or intimidated by them. Instead, you can work with your solicitor to create a settlement agreement that can be sent to them.

5. 244,000 Council Homes in the UK have at least one serious housing disrepair/ housing risk

When it comes to the safety of a council home, it’s important to understand that there are different categories of housing disrepair. Some may only be minor damages and so may not require fixing. For instance, some cracks in the paint on your wall may be inconvenient but they are not going to cause you any damage. Instead, you may just need to disguise the cracks with a painting or ask to repaint the wall. However, there are others that may require more serious repair services. These are known as category 1 risks. Some examples of these risks include faulty/exposed electrical wiring, dangerous electrical sockets, infestations, broken/leaky roofing or walls, inadequate security or extreme mould.

You should report these damages in writing to your solicitor as well as send an email. That way you can leave a trail behind you about the damages and show that you did your best to get them sorted. If your landlord refuses to acknowledge your claim, take pictures of the damages and provide evidence. That way if they still refuse to help you, you can go to a solicitor and ensure that you get your housing disrepair claim started with an experienced legal expert.

Make a Housing Disrepair Claim with Gowing Law Solicitors

Here at Gowing Law Solicitors, we understand that being the victim of a housing disrepair can leave you feeling vulnerable and scared. This is where our lawyers can step in to help you get the compensation that you deserve. Our housing disrepair specialists can provide you with free advice and consultations to get you started. If you are happy to move forward with your claim, we can work with you on a “no win- no fee” basis. That means you will always end up on top and will never have to pay any hidden fees. Instead, you will only need to pay your solicitor if they win your case for you. So, what’s stopping you from getting in touch?

Contact our Housing Disrepair solicitors today by phoning 0800 041 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk or by using our claim’s checker. You can then let us know if you have any questions. We would be more than happy to help you understand the basics. That way you can feel confident with moving forward with your claim.

Want to read more about Housing Disrepair Claims?

Don’t forget that if you want to learn more about Housing Disrepair Claims, you can visit our blog for more information. We update it every week with brand new content. This is all about legal claims, law firm updates, seasonal events and the occasional competition/giveaway. If you want to suggest a blog topic, feel free to send it to info@gowinglaw.co.uk. You can also follow our social media for our latest updates.

We look forward to seeing you in our next blog!

What do you need to know about Housing Disrepair Claims?

Posted on May 28, 2021 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Housing Disrepair Claims, Uncategorised

Housing Disrepair Claims are here to protect the residents of council houses and the housing association against damages within their homes. It is the responsibility of the landlord to ensure that a council home is habitable for residents and their families. If they do not fulfil their obligations as a landlord, they could be left liable for any damages to the property, the tenant or the tenant’s belongings. Here at Gowing Law Solicitors, we understand that dealing with any type of claim can be extremely stressful. However, if you are being forced to live in squalid conditions, this can have a severe impact on your mental and physical health, as well as your quality of life. That’s why we are determined to get you the compensation that you deserve.

Around the UK, it has been found that over 76,814 council properties have been deemed as “non-decent” by the English Housing Survey. That’s why it’s time for you to get started on your Housing Disrepair Claim. This blog is going to be used to answer some of the basic questions you may have about these type of claims. However, if you want to learn more, speak to Gowing Law Solicitors today by phoning 0800 041 8350 or by emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk. You can also click on the button below to visit our website:

What are Housing Disrepair Claims?

If you are going to make a Housing Disrepair Claim, your home has been suffering from terrible damages that were not your fault. By living in a council home or the property of the housing association, your home is not your “own” property. You are renting it from someone else. That person is your landlord. Therefore, they are responsible for fixing any damages that may have occurred inside or around the outside of the property. If they refuse to fix it, ignore your complaints or outright claim that you should be the one to pay for the damages, you can make a Housing Disrepair Claim against them. It is their responsibility to ensure people can live in the property.

If they fail to do so, they are liable for any damages that occur. You could then claim compensation for any damages that you haven forced to endure. The extent of this compensation will depend on how severe your damages are and how long your landlord has left the problem to fester.

What is my landlord responsible for in my rented property?

Your landlord is responsible for the majority of your property if you are renting from them. This includes the structures and roofing of your house, as well as any essential furniture that was in the property to begin with, such as a toilet, oven or fridge. Some additional responsibilities of your landlord include:

Security
Fire safety
Gas, Electricity, Water, Sanitation maintenance
Damp and Mould problems
Broken windows and doors
Garden maintenance
Broken flooring or exposed nails

If you notice any of these problems in your house, you should let your landlord know immediately about the type of damages your home is experiencing. Send them your complaints in writing, as well as over email. That way they can respond to them as quickly as possible. Your landlord should then visit the property to inspect the damage before sending over an engineer to have the disrepair fixed.

Do I need to pay rent if I am going to make a Housing Disrepair Claim?

Yes! You do need to keep paying rent if you are thinking about making a Housing Disrepair Claim. The council house is still rented accommodation. That means you have to pay to be in it, even if it is entirely not up to standard. We understand that this can be extremely frustrating. But if you fail to pay rent, it is likely that your landlord could make a counter claim against you. If the counter claim is approved, you could be evicted from the house you live in or go into debt to pay back rent. So, always pay your rent on time! That way your claim can go smoother.

Can I make a claim if I no longer live in the house?

Unfortunately, if you no longer live in the rented property, there is no way you could make a claim. That is because the contract is over and you are no longer under the landlord’s “duty of care”. If you feel as if you are suffering from the negligence of the landlord, it’s essential that you make your claim as quickly as possible before you move out. That way you can get the compensation that you deserve.

Am I eligible for a Housing Disrepair Claim?

There are three categories that your claim needs to fall under in order to be eligible for compensation from a Housing Disrepair Claim. These are:

Don’t forget that you don’t just have to fall into one of these categories. Instead, you could fall into several. For instance, if you had a mould and damp issue in your bedroom, which could mean that you could no longer use your bedroom. This would be an example of inconvenience. The mould then started to grow on your clothes and fabrics. This would be an example of damage to your belongings. The mould then started to affect your breathing and worsened your asthma. This is an example of a personal injury. Don’t be afraid to tell your solicitor that you have suffered from several types of damages, including:

Physical Damages
Emotional Damages
Financial Damages
Loss of Opportunity
Technological Damages

The extent of your damages will affect the amount of compensation that you could be offered. So, make sure to be honest and let your solicitor know everything that has happened. They can give you an honest estimate about how much you could be owed and whether you are eligible at all.

What sort of evidence will I need to make Housing Disrepair Claims?

Just like a normal personal injury claim, you are going to need evidence to back up the allegations that have been made. Evidence can take many forms. This includes photographs, videos or CCTV of the damages. You can also use witness statements, financial receipts, diary entries, medical records, police reports and communication with your landlord. It may be a little difficult to collect evidence if you are currently trying to socially-distance from other people. However, as this is your home, you should be able to collect photographs at least of the damages. If you need advice on more specific types of evidence about your case, speak to your solicitor. They can help you understand what sort of evidence you are going to need to back up your case.

How much could I be owed from Housing Disrepair Claims?

This is where things can get a little complicated. Not every case is going to be awarded the same amount of compensation. The amount you receive depends on the damages you have suffered and how long the negligence has been going on for. Once you and your lawyer have established your claim, you can work on a settlement agreement. This is the amount of compensation you would be willing to accept for the damages from your landlord. Your landlord can choose whether or not they would be willing to agree to the settlement. If they refuse, this is when the case may be taken to court.

From our experience, compensation can range between £1,000 – £20,000. That’s why it’s so important for you to talk to a solicitor as quickly as possible. They can help you move forward and get the compensation that you deserve.

How long will it take to make a Housing Disrepair Claim?

You will have three years from the time the damages occurred to make a claim for your Housing Disrepairs. Your landlord is responsible for the damages and so we could advise you not to wait if you need the compensation to pay for the damages. It will take our solicitors one working day to figure out if you have a valid claim. From there, the timescale will depend on the complexity of your case. Our lawyers will keep you updated about how your claim is progressing. Feel free to get in touch to ask them questions at any time.

Gowing Law Solicitors can help you with your Housing Disrepair Claims

Here at Gowing Law Solicitors, we are determined to help as many clients as possible all over the UK. That way they can get the compensation that they deserve. Our solicitors can offer you free advice and consultations to get you started. If you are happy to progress with the help of our law firm, we can offer our services on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means there will be no hidden fees to pay and you will always come out on top.

Contact Gowing Law today by calling 0800 041 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk or by using our claim’s checker. From there, our specialists will be in touch to answer your questions.

Can I make a Housing Disrepair Claim for Damaged Belongings?

Posted on May 19, 2021 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Housing Disrepair Claims, Uncategorised

Making a housing disrepair claim can be a daunting prospect for anyone who is worried about causing conflict with their landlord. Here at Gowing Law Solicitors, we completely understand. If you live in a council home or property from the housing association, you will want to do your best to stay on the good side of the people who run your home. However, there comes a time when enough simply has to be enough. Recently, ITV has discovered that last year in the English Housing Survey that around 76,814 council homes are in a substandard conditions. That’s why if you have suffered from personal injuries or your belongings have been damaged due to the state of your home, it’s time for you to consider making a compensation claim.

This is where Gowing Law Solicitors can step in to help you. Our specialists are here to offer you free advice and consultations to get you back in control of your household and your life. You don’t need to feel intimidated by your landlord. Instead, rely on Gowing Law to get you the pay-out that you deserve. Call us on 0800 041 8350 or visit our website below:

What is Housing Disrepair all about?

If you are suffering from a housing disrepair, it’s likely that the property you are living in is in need of repairs. By living in rented accommodation, your landlord will be responsible for the upkeep of the property. Of course, you need to keep it clean, tidy and also alert your landlord if any repairs are needed. However, your landlord is financially responsible for sending out engineers to oversee the repair work. If they fail to do this, or outright ignore your complaints, and the problem gets worse or you experience damages as a result, you could be owed compensation.

Your landlord is responsible for:

The external and internal structures of your home (i.e. roofing or walls)
Any mould or damp issues
Security
Fire safety
Gas, sanitation, heating and electricity maintenance

These are only a few examples of what your landlord is responsible for you in home. Don’t be afraid to come to your solicitor if you are feeling confused about your own eligibility. Your lawyer can let you know more information about their responsibilities. In general, if you live in a rented home, your landlord is going to be responsible for the upkeep of the majority of it. Therefore, if you are hurt or your property is damaged because of the housing disrepair, you could be owed compensation.

How do I know if I am eligible to make a Housing Disrepair Claim?

Before we jump into more information about making a housing disrepair claim about damaged belongings, let’s have a quick chat about eligibility in general. When you experience a housing disrepair, it should be your first instinct to go to your landlord in order to get it started. Make sure you send your complaint in writing as well as an electronic correspondence, that way you can state that you made an official complaint.

Now, there may have been some delays due to the current pandemic, but your landlord still had a “duty of care” towards you and any other residents living in your property. Now that the pandemic is easing, it should be easier for your landlord to assess the damages in your home. If they ignore you, and the problem gets worst, you could be eligible for compensation.

There are three main categories of eligibility that your claim could fall into. These are:

Don’t be afraid to gather evidence if you fall into any of these categories. You may want to consider photographs, videos, witness statements, receipts, police reports and correspondence with your landlord. These can be passed onto your lawyer and they can talk to your landlord on your behalf about a settlement agreement. If they refuse to accept the claim, there is a chance that it may need to go to court. However, in our experience, most landlords are very keen to reach an understanding with their residents. That way any problems can be worked out and both the resident and landlord can move forward with initiating changes.

Broken Belongings: How do I get compensation for these damages?

One of the major damages that you could claim for is in relation to your own personal property. When you move into a building, a non-habitable environment could mean that your belongings are damages due to it. For instance, if it suffers from mould and damp, your clothes and any property with a fabric surface could end up being destroyed. Your landlord may give you advice to get a dehumidifier or to open the windows regularly, but sometimes it just doesn’t work. If the building itself also has structures that could cause damage to your property, such as loose flooring, exposed woodwork and nails, leaks or faulty essential items (like your cooker, fridge or toilet), you could also make a claim for that. Take a look at the GIF below for a cast study about property damage:

If you have experienced damage to your belongings, you may feel the urge to have them replaced as quickly as possible. This means that you could incur financial damages that would never have happened if your landlord had kept your home in a safe condition. Resist the urge to replace your items immediately. Instead, you can ask for compensation in order to have these items replaced. Take pictures of the damages to send to your landlord and your lawyer. If your landlord refuses to accept the damages then you could have a claim on your hand. Speak to a solicitor as quickly as possible to find out about how much you could be owed.

Will my landlord replace my damaged belongings?

Yes! Your landlord should replace your damaged belongings if it is proven that they were destroyed due to their negligence. That’s why it’s crucial that you take as many pictures as possible to show the extent of your damages. Keep in mind, however, that your landlord will not pay for a new version of the product. Instead, it is expected that a second hand replacement will be bought. Make sure to look up replacement examples and let your landlord and solicitor know how much the product is. If the product does need to be fully replaced, it’s important that you find the cheapest product possible. This may make you feel frustrated, but don’t forget that you will still be in control of which replacement is chosen. Speak to your solicitor for more information about this.

How much compensation could I get from a Housing Disrepair Claim?

Honestly, this is where things get a little tricky. For damaged property claims, it depends on the extent of the damages, how long they have been left by your landlord and the extent of the negligence. It may also depend on the extent of your own damages and whether there are other things that have happened to you. For example, this may include whether or not you experienced inconvenience in your daily life or personal injuries. The best way to find out more information on the amount of compensation you could receive is to speak to your solicitor. They can look at your evidence and your case and make an estimate. This estimate can then be used for the settlement agreement if you are happy with it. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice from your solicitor. They are there to help you get the highest amount of compensation possible.

Get started on your Housing Disrepair Claim with Gowing Law Solicitors

It’s time to get started on your Housing Disrepair Claim with the help of a specialist from Gowing Law Solicitors. We know that living in a council home that’s in a state of disrepair can leave you feeling angry, vulnerable and upset. That’s why our lawyers are ready to get you the compensation to improve your home or at least help you deal with your damages. We can offer you free advice and consultations to get you started. If you are happy to move forward with your claim, our lawyers can work with you on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means there will be no hidden fees. The only reason you would need to pay our solicitors is if we win your case. That means you will always come out on top.

Contact our law firm today by phoning 0800 041 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk or by using our claim’s checker. From there, one of our specialists will be in touch in order to answer any additional questions you may have. They will then let you know updates about your case. Feel free to check in with them at any time.

Learn more about Housing Disrepair Claims

Here at Gowing Law Solicitors, we are proud to have a law blog that we update with new information every week! We know that our clients may feel uncomfortable about going into a claim without knowing the basics. That’s why we have dedicated a lot of our blogs to answering your questions about specific claims. We also write about seasonal events and our latest updates about our law firm. Occasionally, you may even find the odd competition or giveaway hosted on our social media and blog. So, make sure to keep checking in to see what we have been up to. If you want to suggest a topic for our blog, feel free to send in your ideas to info@gowinglaw.co.uk.

We look forward to seeing you in our next blog!

What should I do if my council home is suffering from Housing Disrepair?

Posted on May 12, 2021 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Housing Disrepair Claims, Uncategorised

If your council home is suffering from housing disrepair, it’s likely that there are interior and exterior problems that can only be fixed by your landlord. As you are renting your accommodation, your landlord owes you a “duty of care” to ensure that your home is habitable for both you and your family. However, as you may have seen recently from the ITV housing reports, there are many landlords all over the country that are neglecting the needs of their tenants. These tenants are living in homes that are full of damp, mould and potential safety hazards. Not only does it put them at risk of a personal injury, angry questions may be raised about why they are paying rent to live in a home that exposes them to these dangers.

Here at Gowing Law Solicitors, we understand the frustration from our clients when it comes to their Housing Disrepair Claims. That’s why we want to provide as much support as possible to ensure they get the compensation that they deserve. It’s important you know exactly what to do if your council home is in need of a repair. That way, if your landlord ignores your request or refuses to help, you can focus on making a compensation claim. Call Gowing Law Solicitors today on 0800 041 8350 or visit our Housing Disrepair Claims page below:

What disrepairs is my landlord responsible for?

When it comes to any type of council home or property from the housing accommodation, your landlord owes the tenant a “duty of care”. This means that they are responsible for your safety whilst you live in the property. They have to make sure that uphold the UK’s health and safety standards. If your home is found to be in a state of disrepair, the council of your area must act in order to improve it. This includes:

Carrying out an informal negotiation with your landlord to improve your home
Acting out a formal enforcement to incite action from your landlord

If you are worried about the condition of your home, you can ask for the Housing Health and Safety Rating System or an environmental officer to check out your home. Your landlord is responsible for the majority of the property, including its fire safety, security, structure, mould and damp as well as the sanitation, electricity, water, gas and heating structures in the property. Your landlord is financially responsible for these structures breaking down. They need to send out the appropriate engineer or repair team in order to get the repair fixed. You should not have to pay for these repairs to be made. That’s why, if your landlord does ignore you, refuses to help or tells you that you need to pay a fee to have the repairs done, you could make a claim against them. This is due to the fact that they are guilty of negligence.

What should I do if I believe my home is suffering from Housing Disrepair?

It’s important to let you landlord know about any problems in your home as soon as they happen. That way the problem won’t get any worse and you can get your home back in a good condition to live in. There is a chance that your landlord could ignore you and be guilty of negligence. However, if you want to build a strong case you need to show that you did everything possible to get the repair sorted. Take a look at the infographic below to find out how to do this:

Another thing that you may need to consider is evidence. Don’t forget to take pictures, videos and have witnesses corroborate your story through a statement. That way, if your landlord refuses to take any notice of the damages, you can have evidence on your side to prove that your house did suffer from neglect. Your solicitor can then get started on helping you make a Housing Disrepair Claim.

What should I do if my landlord fails to help me with my Housing Disrepairs?

It’s never nice being ignored by your landlord, especially if your home is suffering from severe issues that require their urgent attention. Sometimes landlords may believe that it is the responsibility of their tenants to see to the larger problems. Whilst it is your duty to keep your home in a good living standard, larger problems should be seen to by your landlord. If they ultimately refuse to help you, it may be time for you to make a Housing Disrepair Claim. Your eligibility depends on three main factors. Take a look at the gif below to find out if you are eligible:

If you have fallen into any of these categories, you could claim compensation for your damages. You were put in harm’s way due to the negligence of your landlord. That is why you deserve compensation. If you believe that you are eligible for a claim, the best thing you can do is go to an expert Housing Disrepair Claims solicitor. They can talk to your landlord on your behalf and make sure that they know they are liable for the damages in your home. A solicitor can ensure that no mistakes are made and that you get the full amount of compensation that you deserve. Housing Disrepair can have a severe effect on your mental health. So, you should take the time to recover whilst your solicitor helps move your case forward.

Gowing Law Solicitors can help you with your Housing Disrepair Claim

Here at Gowing Law Solicitors, our lawyers are here to help you get the compensation that you deserve. We know that any type of legal claim can be daunting. That’s why it’s helpful to have an experienced solicitor on your side during these challenging times. Our lawyers can offer you free advice and consultations to get you started. If you are happy to move forward with your claim, they can work with you on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means you will always come out on top. You will never need to pay any hidden fees.

Contact Gowing Law Solicitors today by calling 0800 041 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk or by using our claim’s checker. One of our specialists will then be in contact to discuss your claim. Feel free to direct any questions you may have towards them.

Housing Disrepair Claims & Personal Injuries: What do you need to know?

Posted on May 5, 2021 by Hannah Fletcher - Accidents in Public, Blog, Housing Disrepair Claims, Uncategorised

Housing Disrepair Claims can be extremely stressful to sort out on your own. Not only do you need to deal with your landlord, but you will have to live in a council home that is simply not suitable to be lived in by you or your family. The worst thing that could happen during this time is if you suffer a personal injury due to the condition of your home.

It is your landlord’s responsibility to ensure that your home is in a state of decent repair. That means all of the essentials are in working order and there is nothing that could pose a threat to you or anyone who is working in the home. If you suffer from a personal injury due to the condition of your council house, you could be owed compensation for your damages. This is where Gowing Law Solicitors can step in to help you with your Housing Disrepair Claim.

Find out more about making a Housing Disrepair Claim with our law firm by calling 0800 041 8350 or by visiting our website below:

What is classified as Housing Disrepair?

If you live in a council home or a property provided by housing association, your landlord has the responsibility to ensure that your home is in a habitable condition for both you and your family. Your landlord is in charge of any repairs that occur both inside and outside the property. Not only are they in charge of the essentials, such as gas, water, electricity and sanitation, but they need to make sure that the security, fire safety training and overall structure of the building is taken care of.

If the building falls into a state of disrepair, your landlord is financially responsible to get the right engineers involved to have it sorted. Now that the lockdown is easing, there is no reason why they should not be communicating with you about repairs. If they ignore your complaints and you end up getting hurt, you could be owed compensation for your damages.

You may be feeling a little confused about what could be classified as housing disrepair. That’s why we have created a quick case study to get better idea about what these types of claims are all about. Take a look below for more information:

As you can see, John was not responsible for the damages in his home. His landlord did not help him and therefore was liable to pay compensation. You could do the same thing if you have experienced any of the following housing disrepairs in your home:

Malfunctioning gas, sanitation, electricity, heating or water systems
Holes or damage to the roof or house’s structure
Damp or mould problems
Broken essential items (like toilets, showers, ovens or your fridge)
Broken windows or doors

If you need additional assistance working out your own eligibility, speak to your housing disrepair claims lawyer. They can help you figure out whether or not it is worth pursuing your claim.

What could make me eligible for Housing Disrepair Claims?

When it comes to housing disrepair claims, it’s important that you establish that your solicitor is guilty of negligence. That means they have ignored their “duty of care” towards their tenants. Instead, they are expecting their tenants to use their own finances to fix the damages. This should not happen. Instead, they should be the ones paying for the damages to the council property as they are the ones who are renting it out to you. If they refuse to do this then you could be owed compensation if it has had an effect on your daily life or quality of life in general.

There are three main categories that you claim could fall under when it comes to its eligibility. These are personal injuries, damage to belongings and inconvenience. Take a look at the infographic below to get a better idea about each category:

The best way to discern what type of claim you are dealing with, in relation to Housing Disrepair Claims, is to look through your damages. In some cases, it may be a combination of all three of them. For instance, you may have slipped up due to the water from a leak, and the leak may have also damaged your furniture. Your solicitor can help you build up a solid case to ensure that you get the compensation that you deserve.

Personal Injury Claims and Housing Disrepair

One of the biggest categories that could make you eligible for Housing Disrepair compensation is in relation to injuries suffered due to problems in your council housing. When it comes to any type of personal injury claim, the claim will be based on the damages you have experienced. The main type of damages are physical damages. These are physical injuries that you have suffered, including broken bones, internal bleeding, and damage to organs or loss of limb, sight, teeth or hearing. However, you can also claim for emotional damages, financial damages, loss of opportunity and technology damages.

If the disrepair of your home has caused you to get hurt then you could be eligible for compensation. The negligence of your landlord has caused you to get into an accident that was not your fault. Some examples of these accidents can include:

Slipping up on puddles or faulty flooring
Impalement through exposed pieces of the floor, wall or furniture
Toxic inhalation of gas from faulty systems
Exposed nailing or structures causing bleeding, cuts or large wounds that need stitches
Burns from explosions or faulty equipment

The first thing you should do if you get hurt is to call an ambulance for medical help. That way you can be checked over by a specialist and ensured that your injuries are not any worse than they may have initially appeared to be. You should then focus on collecting evidence to build up your case. This includes photographs, videos, witness statements, police reports, medical reports, receipts and correspondence with the other party. This includes speaking to your landlord about the issues your home is experiencing.

How long do I have to make Housing Disrepair Claims?

The length of every housing disrepair claim is different. It depends on the complexity of the claim, as well as the co-operation of your landlord. You will have around 3 years, from the time of the disrepair happened, to make your claim. So, make sure to get in touch with a solicitor as quickly as possible. The longer you give your solicitor, the more likely that they will build you a solid case and will not rush your claim. They will always do their best to keep you involved and updated about the latest information about your case. That way you can relax and wait for an outcome without any pressure being on your shoulders.

Gowing Law Solicitors is here to help with your Housing Disrepair Claims

Here at Gowing Law Solicitors, we are determined to help as many people as possible all over the UK with their housing disrepair claims. It can be extremely traumatic to be injured in your own home. Worse still, you may not even feel safe to go back to your residence. That’s why we want to get you the compensation you deserve to help you recover. We can offer you free advice and consultations to get you started. If you are happy to proceed with your claim, we can offer our services on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means you will never need to pay any hidden fees. Our lawyers will only asked to be paid if they win your case. Therefore, you will always come out on top.

Speak to us today by calling 0800 041 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk or by using our claim’s checker. One of our law firm’s specialists will then be in contact to help you with your claim and to answer your questions.

Learn more about Housing Disrepair Claims

If you still have some questions about Housing Disrepair Claims, make sure to visit our blog for more information. We update it every week with new legal topics, seasonal events and information about our law firm. You can also send in your blog suggestions to info@gowinglaw.co.uk. Make sure to keep an eye on our blog and social media for our latest competitions and giveaways. You could be winner if you follow us.

We look forward to seeing you in our next blog!

Can I still make a Housing Disrepair Claim during lockdown?

Posted on April 27, 2021 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Covid-19, Housing Disrepair Claims

By making a housing disrepair claim, you have decided that your landlord is guilty of negligence. Your landlord is responsible for the upkeep of your home. Although you need to keep it clean, tidy and in a habitable state, if there are repairs that need to be completed in your council home, that falls to your landlord to fix. Currently, the UK is coming out of the lockdown. However, before this ease started, your landlord should have been checking in regularly to make sure that there are no disrepairs that could impact your life for the worst. If they have completely ignored you throughout the lockdown, even if there have been problems, you could be eligible to make a compensation claim.

Find out more about making a housing disrepair claim by calling Gowing Law’s firm at 0800 041 8350 or by clicking the button below:

What is a landlord responsible for with my council house?

As you can see, if you live in a council house or a home from the housing association, your landlord is responsible for quite a lot of the property. When you first move in, you expect it to be in a good condition. That way if you are moving in with any other people, you can feel safe and secure in your own residence. Take a look at the infographic below to get a better idea of what areas of your property fall under your landlord’s responsibility:

These are only a few examples of what repairs your landlord will need to make. If any of the aforementioned categories do fall into disrepair, it is their job to get them fixed as quickly as possible. Even during the lockdown, they are responsible for sending out (and financing) any engineers to repair the damages to your home. If they fail to do this, by either ignoring you or refusing outright, they could be liable for negligence. That means they have failed in their “duty of care” towards the residents within their property.

How do I know if I am eligible to make a housing disrepair claim?

Above you can see a case study of a client who was eligible to make a housing disrepair claim. They are not as complicated as you may originally think. Instead you need to think of this type of claim in relation to their damages. That way you can figure out whether or not you are eligible. For any type of personal injury claim, the amount of compensation that you receive will be based on your physical damages. The same thing applies to housing disrepair claims. You can make your claim based on your physical, emotional and financial damages. You can also make a claim based on the damages to your belongings.

Your eligibility for Housing Disrepair Claims will be based on three things:

Your physical damages: If the disrepair has caused you to get hurt, and you need to seek medical treatment to try and help improve your condition, you could be eligible for compensation.
Damages to your property: Your belongings may have been damaged by leaks, damp and mould. If this has happened, your landlord will be responsible for replacing the damaged items
Inconvenience: The disrepairs in your property may have taken a toll on your daily pattern and quality of life in general. If it has disrupted your pattern, and you have found you cannot use your house property, you could be eligible for a claim.

If you fall into any of these categories, you could be eligible for compensation. Speak to your solicitor to find out more about your eligibility. That way you can feel confident about asking for compensation.

Should my landlord be helping me during the lockdown?

To be quite blunt, they should have been helping you throughout the lockdown if your home was suffering from disrepair. It is your landlord’s duty to make sure that you were living without the damages impacting your quality of life. Of course, it may have been difficult to visit you due to the social-distancing regulations. However, they could have organized a professional repair team to go to your home. They could have also spoken to you through email or phone to assess what the damages were. If you were worried about them coming to your home, you could have sent them pictures of the damages instead. As you can see, even during the pandemic, there were lots of ways that they could have helped sort out your disrepairs. If they just ignored you, this is a sign of negligence and shows that you could be owed compensation for your damages.

Now that lockdown is easing, and it is becoming simpler for people to meet in the public, your landlord should be trying to offer more support in relation to your disrepairs. If you feel as if they are still not doing this, you should start on your Housing Disrepair Claim with Gowing Law Solicitors. Our team of specialists are here to assist you throughout the lockdown and beyond!

How much could I be owed from a Housing Disrepair Claim?

You may be wondering how much compensation you could be owed from your claim. Quite honestly, it depends on the extent of your damages and the negligence of your landlord. If you have suffered from physical injuries, emotional and property damages, it’s very likely that you will receive a higher amount of compensation than someone who has just had a few belongings damaged due to a leak. The best way to get an estimate of how much compensation you could be owed is by speaking to your solicitor. They can calculate your damages and let you know whether or not you should move forward with your claim.

Are you ready to get started on your Housing Disrepair Claim?

We understand that you may feel nervous and vulnerable when you make your housing disrepair claim. After all, you may not understand who to turn to if you are struggling to move forward and get the repairs needed to live in comfortable accommodation. Gowing Law Solicitors will be there to support you throughout your claim. We can offer you free advice and consultations to get you started. If you are happy to move forward, we can offer you our help on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means you will not need to pay any hidden fees. Instead, you will only need to pay our solicitors if they win your case. Therefore, you will always come out on top.

Contact our lawyers today by calling 0800 041 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk or by using our simple self-assessment form. One of our specialists will then be in touch to answer any questions you may have.

Learn more about Housing Disrepair Claims

If you want to learn more about different types of housing disrepair claims, the best place to visit is Gowing Law’s blog page. We update it every week with brand new content. This includes information about different legal claims, seasonal events and information about our law firm’s latest updates. We even host the occasional competition or giveaway on our blog and social media. So, make sure to keep an eye on the blog to see what’s been happening! You can even suggest a blog topic to us by emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk.

We look forward to seeing you in our next blog!

Housing Disrepair Claims, Mould & Damp Issues: What should you do?

Posted on April 26, 2021 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Covid-19, Housing Disrepair Claims, Uncategorised

Housing Disrepair Claims are there to protect you and your assets if your landlord has been neglecting their responsibilities and your house has started falling apart. Well, perhaps not falling apart entirely, but has started experiencing some damages that only your landlord can fix. When it comes to the exterior and interior of your council property, you cannot fix the damages on your own. In fact, you should not be spending any money at all on your rented accommodation. Your landlord has a “duty of care” towards you and their other tenants to ensure that you can live comfortably in your council home. That’s why it is so shocking that, recently, that many families are being forced to live in .

If your home has suffered from damage due to mould and damp issues, your landlord is responsible for fixing it. Should they refuse to help then they could be liable for any physical, financial or emotional damages that you suffer. This is where you should consider making a housing disrepair claim to claim compensation for your losses. You can do this by calling our housing disrepair claims law firm at 0800 041 8350 or by clicking the button below to visit our website:

What are Housing Disrepair Claims all about?

When you move into a council flat or a home from the housing accommodation, you expect it to be in a good condition. That means that it needs to be habitable for both you and your family. Your landlord is responsible for the state of your home, as well as any of the following:

Electricity, water, sanitation and gas maintenance
Fire safety
Exterior and roof structure damages
Heating problems
Mould and damp problems
Security for the property
Broken windows
Carpets in a state of disrepair

These are only a few examples of the types of damages that you could encounter inside of a rented property. You may be feeling concerned about whether or not you need to pay for any fixes that occur in your home that are no fault of your own. We would highly recommend that you do not pay for them. Even during the lockdown, your landlord was responsible to make any repairs that were needed. If they refuse then they could be held liable for any damages that you suffer as a result of them, especially if you are suffering from a mould and damp issue.

Mould & Damp issues: Why should you be aware of this type of disrepair?

One of the most common types of disrepair, especially when it comes to council homes, is mould and damp. Mould can become a serious problem when it comes to any type of home because it is so difficult to get rid of it. You may purchase cleaning products to get rid of it, but after a few months it will just come back. Now, your landlord may give you advice on how to stem your mould problem, such as opening windows and making sure your home is not too humid. But this sort of advice is still not a way of fixing the problem.

Worse still, it may impact your quality of life, especially if you have to open your windows or not have your heating on during the colder months. You may find it very difficult to live in your home due to the mould. Take a look at the gif below to get a better idea of how a damp problem could impact you:

As you can see, Lewis suffered due to negligence of his landlord. They refused to help him and so he was forced to make a housing disrepair claim against them. Black mould can come as a result of the home being too warm and too humid. Therefore, it will need a specialist to come in and fix the problem. They will identify the issue, mark off the affected areas and treat them efficiently. Therefore, you will not need to worry about your home being uninhabitable.

If you are concerned about your own eligibility, the best way to find out more is to speak to Gowing Law Solicitors. Our law firm can help you figure out whether or not you think it is worth moving forward with your claim. That’s why we would highly recommend that you fill out our self-assessment form to get started:

Furniture Damage & Mould Problems

Before we jump into the basics of housing disrepair claims & eligibility, let’s take a quick moment to talk about property damage. One of the biggest hazards of mould, apart from physical damages, is in relation to your belongings. Now, mould is easily spread from different fabrics. It can appear on wood and stone, however it is also very easy for it to spread to your clothes, furniture and property. If you have noticed that there is mould on your furniture, your instinct may be to immediately wash the damaged property. But honestly, it’s very unlikely that this will get rid of the problem. In fact, it’s more likely that the mould will grow back due to the conditions of your home.

If your property has been damaged due to mould, you can make a claim against your landlord for compensation. They will have to provide the funds to have the objects be replaced. Just keep in mind, they will expect you to buy them second-hand. So, be aware that they will not pay the original price of what the belongings were valued at.

What factors could make me eligible for compensation?

Mould and damp are only a few examples of problems that your classify your house in “disrepair”. Your landlord is responsible for the safety of you and any other residents in your home. If they refuse to fix your property, they could be guilty of negligence as they have gone against their “duty of care.” The three main ways that you could be eligible for housing disrepair claims are through:

Physical Injuries
Damages to property
Inconvenience

Physical injuries and damages to your own belongs are pretty self-explanatory. However, inconvenience may not be. When you live in your rented home, you want to relax and use as much of property as possible. Unfortunately, if some sort of damage is preventing you from living your live in relative comfort, you may be eligible for a claim. For instance, let’s say you have a mould problem in your bathroom and bedroom. You may not be happy with using the rooms as you suffer from asthma or are worried about your health. So, you end up sleeping somewhere else or refuse to bathe in your home in order to avoid worsening your health. This can show that you have been put at an inconvenience. You could use this prove that you are eligible for compensation.

Gowing Law Solicitors can help you with Housing Disrepair Claims

If you are the victim of housing disrepair, it may be time for you to make a claim with Gowing Law Solicitors. We understand that living in a house that is in a state of disrepair can leave you feeling vulnerable and worried about the future. That’s why our lawyers can help you with any type of housing disrepair claims. We can offer your free advice and consultations to get you started. If you are happy to move forward with your claim, we can work with you on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means you will always come out on top as you will never need to pay any hidden fees. We will only ask to be paid if our solicitors win your case.

Contact our law firm today by phoning 0800 041 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk or by using our claims checker. One of our specialists will then be in touch to discuss your claim and how you can get started.

Learn more about Housing Disrepair Claims

If you want to learn more about Housing Disrepair Claims the best place to go is our blog. Our law blog is updated every week with brand new content. These blogs are all about legal claims, seasonal events and updates about our law firm. Should you want to send us a blog topic you would like coupled, feel free to send them to info@gowinglaw.co.uk. You can also take part in our seasonal competitions on our blog and our social media. The links to our social media are below.

We look forward to seeing you in our next law blog!

What is classed as housing disrepair?

Posted on April 21, 2021 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Covid-19, Housing Disrepair Claims, Uncategorised

Over the last year, you have most likely been spending more and more time at home in order to avoid spreading Covid-19. The lockdown has meant that not many businesses, aside from essential shops, have been open. Therefore, it makes sense that in order to stay at home, you want it to be as comfortable as possible for both you and your family. If your home is suffering from disrepair then this could make it practically uninhabitable. Now that the lockdown is easing, it will be easier for your landlord to visit your home in order to make repairs. But to be frank, they should have still been maintaining the upkeep of your council home during the lockdown. If this do not do this then you could be suffering from housing disrepair

If you have suffered from a housing disrepair, it is likely that your home is suffering from damages that only your landlord can fix. Whether you live in a council home or a housing association, Gowing Law Solicitors can help you get the compensation that you deserve. That way you can feel secure for the wellbeing of both you and your family in the future. To learn more, why not call us on 0800 041 8350? You can also find out more about housing disrepair claims by clicking the button below:

Housing Disrepair: What is my landlord responsible for?

To start with, if your home has fallen into disrepair, it usually means that an essential part of it is broken and is need of your landlord’s help to fix it. Usually, this is an area of your house (either inside or out) that needs to be maintained. That way it won’t affect your quality of life, or your ability to actually live inside of the residence. If your rented property is not suitable or safe for people to live in, it can be counted as a housing disrepair, and you could make a housing disrepair claim. Take a look at the gif below to get a better example of what could befall a renter in their home:

As you can see, the disrepair of certain areas of your home falls to your landlord to fix. Of course, you need to be able to keep up with its general upkeep (such as its cleanliness and tidiness), however bigger issues must be solved by the person who owns the property. If your home becomes uninhabitable or starts to affect your quality of life, you could be owed compensation for your damages. Take a look below to get a better idea of what your landlord is responsible for in your home:

Fire safety
Gas, electricity, sanitation and water repair and maintenance
Mould and damp issues
External damages to the property’s structure
Roof and plasterwork repair
Security upkeep

If your home needs an improvement with any of these issues, then these could be classed as housing you could be eligible to make a housing disrepair claim against your landlord.

What would make me eligible to make a claim?

Even during the pandemic, your landlord was responsible for keeping your house in a suitable condition for people to live in. If they failed to adhere to their “duty of care” that means that they could be liable for any damages that you experienced. This includes liability for your “quality of life”. For instance, if you rented a council house and the heating did not work, this could affect your mental and physical health if you were cold and did not have the means to warm up. It may also make you feel angry as you may be considering why you should pay rent for this accommodation in the first place.

With that said, there are three main ways that you could be eligible for compensation. Take a look at the infographic below to get a better idea of these categories:

Don’t forget that when you are thinking about the types of damages that you have experienced, you can claim for both emotional and financial damages, as well as physical damages. Let’s say that you are already suffering from anxiety and depression. If you are living in uncomfortable accommodation that is in need of repairs by your landlord, this could worsen your condition. Speak to a solicitor from Gowing Law to confirm what you could classify as a damage. This could add to the amount of compensation that you receive.

What sort of evidence can I use to prove my claim?

Now that you understand how you could be eligible for a claim, it’s important that you learn more about the evidence behind your overall case. You need to show that you were a victim of your landlord’s negligence. If you do not have any evidence then it will simply become a case of ”he said, she said.” By providing evidence, you are proving that your home is in need of repairs. Your landlord should have provided the support (and funds) to have the repairs made. In addition to this, if any of your belongings have been destroyed due to the disrepair of the house, they will need to be replaced.

Here are some examples of the evidence you could use to prove the disrepair and your need of compensation from your landlord:

Photographs
Videos
Witness Statements
Medical records
Police records
Receipts
Diary Entries
Communications with landlord

Keep all of this evidence safe. You can then give it to your solicitor to organize before a settlement agreement is reached. Your evidence will be used for this settlement agreement, so make sure you provide as much as possible!

Start on your housing disrepair claim with Gowing Law Solicitors

Here at Gowing Law Solicitors, we pride ourselves on being able to provide excellent legal advice to all of our clients about the housing disrepair claims. We understand that living in unsuitable accommodation can leave you feeling uncomfortable and angry at your landlord. That’s why we are determined to help you get the compensation that you deserve. You can come to us for free advice and consultations to get started. If you are happy to move forward with your claim, we can work with you on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means you will never need to pay any hidden fees. We will always be upfront about our costs and you will only need to pay our solicitors if they win your case. Therefore, you will always come out on top.

Contact Gowing Law Solicitors today to get help with your housing disrepair claim. You can call us on 0800 041 8350, email info@gowinglaw.co.uk or us our claims checker. One of our team members will then be in contact to help answer any of your questions.

Learn more about housing disrepair claims in our blog

Don’t forget that Gowing Law’s blog is updated every week with new content for our clients! We want to make sure you know all about the basics of legal claims before you make your own. So, keep checking our page to see what we have uploaded. We write about legal claims, seasonal events and updates about our law firm. Occasionally, you may even catch the odd competition or giveaway to celebrate a holiday. So, make sure you keep your eyes peeled to get ready to join in or follow our social media. You can also suggest blog topics to us by writing into info@gowinglaw.co.uk.

We look forward to seeing you in our next blog.

How can I establish my Housing Disrepair Claim?

Posted on March 16, 2021 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Housing Disrepair Claims, Uncategorised

By making a housing disrepair claim, you are taking back control of your home and are ensuring you get the property repairs you need from your landlord. Your landlord is legally required to make sure that your home is habitable. That means if any damage happens to the interior or exterior, they need to be the ones to pay for repairs. You should not be funding any repairs in your rented accommodation. Unfortunately, not all landlords are going to uphold this legal requirement and may refuse to provide you support. This is where Gowing Law Solicitors can step in to help you. That way you can understand whether or not you could make a compensation claim due to their negligence.

We understand that making any sort of housing disrepair claim can be daunting. You want to keep on good terms with your landlord, therefore, you may be considering just paying for the repairs yourself. However, we would recommend that you don’t do this. You could get a pay-out between £1,000- £20,000 depending on the extent of your damages. Gowing Law’s expert solicitors can speak to your landlord on your behalf and help you establish why you are eligible to make a claim. Click the link below to visit our housing disrepair claim or call us on 0161 464 4444.

What is your landlord responsible for in your home?

If you live in a rented property, such as a home from the housing association or a council house, your landlord has a responsibility to make sure your house remains in a safe and habitable condition. That means if there are any damages to the interior or exterior, it is their responsibility to ensure that it is repaired in a timely manner. That way the living standards of your home will not be affected. Living in a house that is in need of repairs can have a severe impact on your mental health and quality of life. You may even be considering finding a new property to live in. If you are going to do this, you need to make sure that you make your claim before you move out. Sadly, you cannot make a housing disrepair claim if you have already moved out.

With that said, here are some examples of what your landlord is responsible for repairing in your rented accommodation:

If your landlord refuses to pay for repairs in your rented accommodation, you could be eligible for a compensation claim. However, it’s important that you and your solicitor work together to establish your claim. This is a lot simpler than you think, especially if you have the right evidence to prove that you experienced damages as a result.

What do I do to establish my Housing Disrepair Claim?

You will be happy to know that making any sort of claim, even during the pandemic, is not difficult if you establish your case. There are two criteria you need to fulfil if you are going to make a claim. The reason you need to do this is to prove that your landlord is guilty of negligence. They owe you a duty of care. If they do not try to do everything reasonably possible to get your house in a fit state to be lived in by you and your family, you could be owed compensation.

The two criteria to establish your claim are:

The damage to your home was completely avoidable

This means that your landlord could have stopped the damage. It would be easy enough to maintain your home’s installations, including your gas, heating, electricity and water. However, they didn’t and therefore were negligent.

Your landlord knew about the disrepair

In some cases, your landlord may have been able to foresee that the property they rented out was in need of repairs. You may have told them about the potential damages frequently, however they did not listen to you. That means when the damages began to damage your quality of life, they were guilty of negligence.

If you fall into either of these categories, your landlord could be liable for damages. Should they refuse to pay for the damages to improve your home, you should move forward with your housing disrepair claim. That way you can get your compensation pay-out as soon as possible.

How else could I be eligible to make a compensation?

If you are considering making a housing disrepair claim, you may also want to consider what sort of damages the state of your home has left you with. Now, when it comes to any sort of claims, the damages your experience are the key to getting a higher pay-out. Damages may include:

Physical damages
Emotional damages
Financial damages
Loss of opportunity
Technology/equipment damages

Most of the time, these types of damages are used with personal injury claims, however, you can do the same for housing disrepair claims. Take a look at the GIF below to get an idea of how your damages could affect your claim, as well as how much you could receive as a pay-out:

Should you fall into any of the categories mentioned, it is essential that you have the evidence to back up these statements. Your evidence can include:

Photographs of the damages (i.e. your home or injuries)
Videos of the damages
Witness statements
Diary entries
Medical reports (i.e. about your physical injuries)
Receipts

Make sure to collect your evidence before you speak to your solicitor about making a claim. This will make it easier for both of you. It will certainly help when your solicitor speaks to your landlord or begins the necessary paperwork to get you the pay-out that you deserve.

Contact Gowing Law Solicitors about your Housing Disrepair Claim today!

Living in a home that is need of some serious repairs can have a serious impact on you. Your mental and physical health could be damaged! That’s why our solicitors are here to support you throughout this difficult time. We can offer your free advice and consultations to get you started. If you are happy to move forward with your claim, we can work with you on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means you will always come out on top and will never need to pay any hidden fees.

Contact our law firm today by calling us on 0161 464 4444, email info@gowinglaw.co.uk or by using our claim’s checker. One of our lawyers will then be in contact to get you started on your claim. Let them know if you have any questions!

Fill out the form to start your claim today!

The Basics of Housing Disrepairs & Landlords

What could make me eligible for compensation?

Housing Disrepairs: The most common problems in a council house

1. Mould and Damp

2. Pests, Infestations and Vermin

3. Leaks and Flooding

4. Cracks in the external/internal structure

5. Faulty Electricity

Gowing Law Solicitors can help you with your Housing Disrepairs Claim

Learn more about Housing Disrepairs

Tell me more about Housing Disrepair Claims

Housing Disrepair Categories:

1. The English Housing Survey has shown that there are 76,814 “non-decent” properties in the UK

2. One in Seven Council Homes do not meet the National Standard

3. Damp/ Mould issues are some of the most common problems in Council Houses

4. 48% of people in council houses feel ignored about their Housing Disrepair issues

5. 244,000 Council Homes in the UK have at least one serious housing disrepair/ housing risk

Make a Housing Disrepair Claim with Gowing Law Solicitors

Want to read more about Housing Disrepair Claims?

What are Housing Disrepair Claims?

What is my landlord responsible for in my rented property?

Do I need to pay rent if I am going to make a Housing Disrepair Claim?

Can I make a claim if I no longer live in the house?

Am I eligible for a Housing Disrepair Claim?

What sort of evidence will I need to make Housing Disrepair Claims?

How much could I be owed from Housing Disrepair Claims?

How long will it take to make a Housing Disrepair Claim?

Gowing Law Solicitors can help you with your Housing Disrepair Claims

Read more about the basics of legal claims

What is Housing Disrepair all about?

How do I know if I am eligible to make a Housing Disrepair Claim?

Broken Belongings: How do I get compensation for these damages?

Will my landlord replace my damaged belongings?

How much compensation could I get from a Housing Disrepair Claim?

Get started on your Housing Disrepair Claim with Gowing Law Solicitors

Learn more about Housing Disrepair Claims

What disrepairs is my landlord responsible for?

What should I do if I believe my home is suffering from Housing Disrepair?

What should I do if my landlord fails to help me with my Housing Disrepairs?

Gowing Law Solicitors can help you with your Housing Disrepair Claim

Read more about Housing Disrepair

What is classified as Housing Disrepair?

What could make me eligible for Housing Disrepair Claims?

Personal Injury Claims and Housing Disrepair

How long do I have to make Housing Disrepair Claims?

Gowing Law Solicitors is here to help with your Housing Disrepair Claims

Learn more about Housing Disrepair Claims

What is a landlord responsible for with my council house?

How do I know if I am eligible to make a housing disrepair claim?

Should my landlord be helping me during the lockdown?

How much could I be owed from a Housing Disrepair Claim?

Are you ready to get started on your Housing Disrepair Claim?

Learn more about Housing Disrepair Claims

What are Housing Disrepair Claims all about?

Mould & Damp issues: Why should you be aware of this type of disrepair?

Furniture Damage & Mould Problems

What factors could make me eligible for compensation?

Gowing Law Solicitors can help you with Housing Disrepair Claims

Learn more about Housing Disrepair Claims

Housing Disrepair: What is my landlord responsible for?

What would make me eligible to make a claim?

What sort of evidence can I use to prove my claim?

Start on your housing disrepair claim with Gowing Law Solicitors

Learn more about housing disrepair claims in our blog

What is your landlord responsible for in your home?

What do I do to establish my Housing Disrepair Claim?

The damage to your home was completely avoidable

Your landlord knew about the disrepair

How else could I be eligible to make a compensation?

Contact Gowing Law Solicitors about your Housing Disrepair Claim today!

Read more about UK legal claims

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