Misted double glazing is a common problem in rented homes. The sealed units fail, condensation gets between the panes, and windows become opaque or
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Misted double glazing is a common problem in rented homes. The sealed units fail, condensation gets between the panes, and windows become opaque or permanently fogged. Many landlords refuse to replace misted windows, arguing that the glass is not "broken." Here is whether they have to replace them and what you can do.
What causes double glazing to mist up?
Double-glazed sealed units contain an inert gas (usually argon) between two panes of glass, sealed around the edges. Over time, the seal can fail, due to age, temperature cycling, poor installation, or physical damage. When the seal fails, humid air enters the gap between the panes. This air condenses on the cooler inner surfaces and creates the characteristic misting or fogging that cannot be wiped away.
A misted unit cannot be repaired, only replaced. The glazing unit must be removed and a new sealed unit fitted.
Is misted double glazing disrepair?
The question is whether a sealed unit with a failed seal counts as "broken" for the purposes of the landlord's repair obligations.
Under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, the landlord must keep windows in repair. A window pane that cannot be seen through due to internal condensation is not functioning as a window. The sealed unit has failed, its purpose (thermal insulation and a clear view) can no longer be served. Most solicitors and courts would treat this as a repair that the landlord must address.
Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, the property must be fit for human habitation. While misted glazing alone is unlikely to make a property unfit, it can contribute to a wider case where the heating, insulation, and ventilation of the property are inadequate.
The fact that the glass has not shattered does not mean it is not broken, the sealed unit has failed. The landlord's argument that misted glazing is not their responsibility is usually wrong.
The heat loss dimension
Failed double glazing reduces the thermal performance of the window. A misted unit may have lost most of its insulating value, in some cases performing little better than single glazing. For a tenant already struggling with a cold home or high heating bills, failed double glazing makes the problem worse.
If misted windows are contributing to a cold home, this strengthens the case for reporting them as part of a wider disrepair and cold/damp complaint.
What to do
- Report in writing to your landlord: State clearly which windows are misted, and explain that the sealed units have failed and cannot be wiped clear. Ask for the units to be replaced.
- Give a reasonable deadline: Misted glazing is not usually an emergency (unless the window is also failing to close or lock securely). A reasonable timescale might be 4–8 weeks for a non-urgent repair, unless cold weather makes it more urgent.
- Photograph the windows: Take photographs in different lighting conditions, daylight is usually best for showing up the misting clearly.
- Follow up if ignored: If your landlord does not respond, send a follow-up and consider escalating to the formal complaints process.
- Contact environmental health: If the failed glazing is contributing to cold conditions, the council's environmental health team can inspect and assess under HHSRS.
How many misted windows triggers a disrepair claim?
One failed unit may not, by itself, support a large compensation claim. Multiple failed units across the property, particularly when combined with cold conditions, inadequate heating, or other disrepair, can make for a stronger claim. The cumulative effect of disrepair on your ability to use and enjoy your home is what courts consider.
Double-glazing replacement vs sealed unit replacement
When a landlord does agree to replace a failed unit, they should replace the sealed unit, the two panes and the seal between them. There is generally no need to replace the entire window frame if it is structurally sound. If your landlord is arguing for full window replacement rather than unit replacement (and using this to justify delay or cost claims), a sealed unit replacement is usually the correct and less expensive repair.
When should I contact Support for Tenants?
If you have misted windows alongside other disrepair that your landlord has not addressed, call us on 0800 030 4669 to discuss whether you have a claim.
No upfront cost. You only pay if you win, and the fee comes out of the compensation. If you don't win, you pay nothing.
Sources
- Section 11, Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (legislation.gov.uk)
- Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 (legislation.gov.uk)
Related articles
- Is my landlord responsible for broken windows?
- Draughty windows, landlord duty
- My home is too cold, excess cold
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 15 June 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.
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