Your landlord has a legal duty to maintain the exterior and structure of the property you live in. If there is a repair that is either identified in an inspection by your landlord (or your landlord’s agent) or reported by you, your landlord must carry out a competent repair within a reasonable amount of time. If your landlord fails to do so, you could claim compensation for your landlord’s failure to repair.
What can I claim compensation for?
If your landlord fails to repair after he has become aware of the fault, you will be able to make a housing disrepair claim. If you win your case, you will be awarded a sum of compensation. The amount of compensation you receive will depend on the severity and extent of damage and inconvenience you have suffered. You will be entitled to claim compensation for the following:
- Damage to personal belongings
If your personal belongings have been damaged or destroyed as a direct consequence of the disrepair, you will be able to claim the expense of replacing or repairing these items. So, if you have had a leaking roof which has destroyed curtains and bedding you will be able to claim for their replacement cost. You should keep a record of any items damaged or destroyed, and their replacement cost as your solicitor will be able to claim compensation for this type of damage.
- Injury to health
If your health has been adversely affected by the disrepair, you will be able to claim for the pain and suffering this has caused you. The amount of compensation for injury to your health will be calculated by reference to the seriousness of the injury (physical and psychological) you have suffered. If your poor heath has cause you to be absent from work it may be possible to make a compensation claim for loss of earnings.
- Inconvenience
If, because of the disrepair, you haven’t been able to enjoy the use of your home in the normal manner you will be able to claim for the inconvenience/loss of amenity you have endured. Again, the amount of compensation will depend upon the severity and duration of the disrepair.
- Return of rent
If, because of the disrepair, you haven’t been able to live in your home, you could be entitled to a rent rebate, whereby you claim back some of the rent you have paid. Again, the amount of compensation will be determined by how much of your home was considered unfit for habitation, and the duration of the inconvenience.
Want to claim compensation for housing disrepair?
If you would like to claim compensation for a housing disrepair, you would be best advised to speak to a solicitor who specialises in this area of the law. Here at CJS Solicitors we have a specialist team of legal experts ready to help you with your housing disrepair compensation claim. For more information, contact us today and speak to one of our experienced solicitors.
Call us on 0151 329 2092 today.