Signs of housing disrepair: a quick checklist for professionals

Direct answer

If you work with tenants, this is a quick checklist to spot housing disrepair you can help with. If two or more apply, it is worth referring them to us. Call us free on 0800 030 4669 to talk through any case.

Things to listen for and look out for

• The person mentions damp, mould, condensation, or a musty smell in their home.
• They say their home is cold, hard to heat, or the heating is broken.
• They mention leaks, water marks, ceiling stains, or a leak from the flat above.
• They mention rats, mice, cockroaches, or other pests.
• They say their windows do not close, doors are broken, or the front door is not safe.
• A child in the home has asthma or breathing problems that get worse at home.
• They have reported repairs many times and feel "fobbed off."
• They have an environmental health notice, a Stage 1 or Stage 2 complaint, or a letter from the Housing Ombudsman.

Quick triage questions to ask

• "Who is your landlord, the council, a housing association, or a private landlord?"
• "How long has the problem been going on?"
• "Have you reported it in writing?"
• "Is anyone in the home very young, elderly, pregnant, or unwell?"

What to do next

If two or more boxes are ticked, refer them to us. See how to refer a patient or client.

Free call: 0800 030 4669 | Start your claim

Sources

• Section 11, Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (legislation.gov.uk)
• Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) guidance (GOV.UK)