Some wall cracks are harmless, but widening cracks, sticking doors or a sinking feel can mean subsidence. Your landlord must keep the structure safe. Here is what to do.
On this page
Direct answer
Small hairline cracks are often harmless. But wide or growing cracks, doors and windows that suddenly stick, or a floor that feels like it is sinking can be signs of a serious structural problem like subsidence. Your landlord must keep the structure of your home in repair. If they ignore it, call us free on 0800 030 4669.
When to worry about a crack
Report it and ask for it to be checked if:
- A crack is wider than the edge of a £1 coin, or it is getting wider over time
- Cracks run diagonally, or appear around doors and windows
- Doors or windows have started to stick or will not close
- You can see the same crack inside and outside the wall
Your landlord's duty
Under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, your landlord must keep the structure and outside of your home in repair. That covers the walls, foundations and roof. See what is Section 11.
What to do
- Take dated photos. If a crack is growing, mark each end with a pencil and write the date.
- Report it to your landlord in writing and keep a copy.
- Ask for a surveyor to inspect it if you are worried.
- If your landlord does nothing and you think the problem is serious, get help.
How we can help
If your landlord has ignored serious structural disrepair, you may have a claim. We arrange a free inspection and pass strong cases to a housing-disrepair solicitor. Call us free on 0800 030 4669.
Free call: 0800 030 4669 | Start your claim
Sources
- Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11 (legislation.gov.uk)
- Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 (legislation.gov.uk)
We review every guide at least twice a year and update it when the law changes. If you spot something out of date or wrong, email help@supportfortenants.co.uk.
Reviewed against current housing law for England and Wales as at 25 May 2026. Checked by our SRA-regulated panel solicitors. This is general information, not legal advice for your specific case. Any compensation figures or ranges shown are illustrative only and not guaranteed; every case is different.
Related guides
Burst pipe: who is responsible, the landlord or tenant?
A burst pipe is your landlord's job to repair. It is an emergency. Here is the law, who pays for the damage, and what to do right now.
Read
Is my landlord responsible for a broken toilet?
Yes. Your landlord must fix a broken toilet. If it is the only toilet in the home, it is an emergency. Here is the law and what to do.
Read
Is my landlord responsible for broken windows?
Yes, your landlord must repair broken windows. A window that will not close is a security and cold-weather risk. Here is the law and what to do.
Read
Still stuck?
Call us free or start a claim online. We'll tell you honestly whether you have a case worth pursuing.