Can I claim for belongings damaged by disrepair?

Direct Answer

Yes. Belongings ruined by disrepair (mould, leaks, broken heating) can be claimed for. These are called "special damages", and they sit alongside the main compensation. Common claims include mattresses, clothes, bedding, sofas, carpets, electronics damaged by water, and toys. Keep the items if you can, photograph them, and keep receipts for replacements.

What counts

Special damages cover any direct money loss caused by the disrepair. Typical items include:

• Bedding, mattresses, clothes, soft toys, and curtains ruined by mould.
• Furniture, carpets, and flooring damaged by leaks or rising damp.
• Electronics (TVs, laptops, fridges, washing machines) damaged by ceiling leaks.
• Higher electricity bills from running heaters or dehumidifiers to manage damp.
• Takeaways during a broken cooker, or laundrette costs during a broken washing machine.
• The cost of putting belongings into storage during repairs.

You can also claim a doctor's letter fee, prescription costs, and travel to medical appointments, if someone in the home became ill because of the disrepair. See what evidence do I need for the full list.

How to evidence it

Keep the damaged items if you possibly can. A mould-covered mattress, wrapped in plastic in the garage, is the strongest single piece of evidence. If you have already thrown things away, dated photos are the next best evidence. Receipts for replacements help show the value. If you no longer have them, today's high-street price for the same item is usually accepted as a fair estimate.

For electronics and white goods, ask a repair shop for a short written note saying the item is beyond economic repair. Most shops will do this for free or a small fee.

What is not covered

You cannot claim for:

• items already damaged before the disrepair
• items the landlord can show you damaged yourself
• sentimental value beyond the replacement cost

You also cannot claim twice for the same item. If insurance has already paid out, you can only claim the gap between what insurance paid and the true replacement cost.

For a free assessment of which belongings would be claimable, call Support for Tenants on 0800 030 4669, or read how much compensation could I get.

Free alternative: Citizens Advice can help you prepare a special damages list at no cost.

Sources

• Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11 (legislation.gov.uk)
• Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 (legislation.gov.uk)
• Limitation Act 1980 (legislation.gov.uk)