When your rented home becomes unsafe or uninhabitable due to damage your landlord refuses to repair, you have legal options. A housing disrepair claim allows tenants to hold landlords accountable when they fail in their duty to maintain the property to a safe and livable standard.
Housing disrepair is unfortunately a common issue in a town like Shrewsbury, which has a large number of historic buildings, converted flats, and mixed-tenure estates. From mould in Victorian terraces to faulty heating systems in social housing, many renters find themselves living in poor conditions for far too long.
If that’s your situation, Marley Solicitors is here to help.
What is a housing disrepair claim?
A housing disrepair claim is a legal process tenants can use to demand repairs and seek compensation when a rented property is not kept in a proper state of repair. It applies to social housing, housing association properties, and privately rented homes.
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords are legally required to maintain the structure and exterior of the building, as well as essential services such as:
- Heating and hot water
- Plumbing and drainage
- Gas, electrics, and sanitation
- Roofs, windows, and doors
If these aren’t working properly and your landlord has failed to act despite being notified, you may be eligible for compensation.
Can I claim housing disrepair compensation in Shrewsbury?
Yes, tenants in Shrewsbury have the same rights as anywhere else in England. Whether you rent from a private landlord or a provider such as Wrekin Housing Group, Sanctuary Housing, or Shropshire Council, you can make a claim if your landlord has failed to deal with necessary repairs.
Shrewsbury’s mix of old and new homes means disrepair issues range from structural problems to worn-out insulation and severe condensation. If your health has suffered or your belongings have been damaged due to your landlord’s neglect, you’re well within your rights to take legal action.
Common examples of housing disrepair
Some of the most common housing disrepair problems we see in Shrewsbury include:
- Severe mould or damp, especially in older buildings
- Leaks from roofs or pipes causing damage to ceilings and walls
- No heating or hot water, especially in winter
- Pest infestations due to broken seals or poor insulation
- Cracks in walls or ceilings leading to structural concerns
- Unsafe wiring or faulty electrics posing fire risks
Health impact of housing disrepair
Living in poor conditions isn’t just uncomfortable – it can be dangerous. Many tenants in Shrewsbury have had to seek treatment at Royal Shrewsbury Hospital or local GP clinics for respiratory conditions made worse by damp, cold, or mould.
Issues like:
- Asthma
- Chest infections
- Skin rashes
- Stress and anxiety
…are frequently linked to unresolved disrepair. If you’ve seen your health decline, make sure to keep a record of any medical visits and prescriptions. These details will support your claim.
What to do if your landlord won’t act
Here’s a simple breakdown of what to do if your landlord is ignoring repair requests:
- Report the problem in writing – texts and phone calls are not enough
- Take clear photos and videos showing the damage
- Document the effects – medical visits, missed work, damaged belongings
- Keep all communication records with your landlord
- Contact Marley Solicitors for a free case assessment
We’ll review the evidence, advise you on your options, and handle the legal process from start to finish.
No win, no fee housing disrepair solicitors in Shrewsbury
Worried about legal costs? Don’t be. At Marley Solicitors, we handle housing disrepair claims on a no win, no fee basis. That means:
- You pay nothing upfront
- You only pay if we win your case
- Our fee comes from the compensation – not your pocket
This makes the process accessible and risk-free for tenants in Shrewsbury who are already dealing with difficult living conditions.
What kind of compensation can you receive?
Compensation can cover a wide range of issues, including:
- Physical discomfort caused by the disrepair
- Damage to personal items, such as furniture or clothing
- Increased heating costs due to faulty insulation or broken heating
- Medical costs and travel expenses
- Impact on your mental health or quality of life
We’ve helped Shrewsbury tenants claim anything from £500 to over £12,000, depending on the severity and duration of the issue.
How long do housing disrepair claims take?
Each case is different, but many are resolved in a matter of months. Some settle quickly when landlords realise they’re legally liable. More complex claims may take longer, especially if surveyors or court proceedings are involved.
Throughout, Marley Solicitors will keep you informed and fight to get you the best possible outcome.
Do I have a strong housing disrepair claim?
You likely do if:
- Your landlord has ignored repair requests for more than 21 days
- The disrepair is causing health problems or damage to your belongings
- The problem has persisted for several months or longer
- You’ve had to pay out of pocket to fix or work around the issue
- You rent through a council or housing association, and they’ve failed in their duty
We’ll give you honest feedback during your consultation and tell you whether your case is likely to succeed.
FAQs
Can I make a claim if I’m still living in the property?
Yes. In fact, most people claim it while still living at home. You do not have to move out to take legal action.
Will it affect my tenancy if I claim?
It is illegal for a landlord to evict or harass you for making a housing disrepair claim. You are protected by law.
Why choose Marley Solicitors?
We’ve helped many clients in Shrewsbury and across Shropshire stand up to negligent landlords and secure the repairs and compensation they deserve. Our team understands the local housing system and works closely with surveyors and medical professionals to build strong, evidence-based claims.
We don’t waste time. We take your side and fight your case with confidence.
Ready to get started?
If you’re living with housing disrepair in Shrewsbury, don’t stay silent. You have rights, and we’re here to help you enforce them.
Contact Marley Solicitors today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll explain your options and guide you through the process on a no win, no fee basis.
Let us help you take back control of your living conditions, and get the justice you deserve.
