Structural defects at Home Group
If you rent from Home Group and your structural defects problem has been left unfixed, the law sets clear deadlines for getting it put right, and you may have a claim. Here is what Home Group must do and how to act.
Why this matters
Home Group's repairs are delivered through a mix of in-house teams and third-party contractors. When repairs fail, tenants can sometimes find that no one party takes ownership. Section 11 puts the duty on the landlord regardless, Home Group can't subcontract its way out of its statutory obligations. Specifically for structural defects, Collapse risk, life-threatening in extreme cases is a recognised health risk under Section 11(1)(a), Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 + Defective Premises Act 1972, and Home Group have a legal duty to act.
The legal anchor
Section 11(1)(a), Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 + Defective Premises Act 1972 gives you the right to repairs in a reasonable time. Under Awaab's Law (in force October 2025), Home Group have a significant-hazard duty under Awaab's Law: 10 working days to investigate, then 5 working days from the end of that investigation to complete the safety work from the moment you reported the problem.
What to gather
- Photograph cracks with a ruler or coin for scale
- Photograph the same crack 2 weeks apart to show movement
- Get a structural engineer's letter if you can, costs ~£200, often recoverable
Contact: Home Group complaints team (visit their website for the current address)
FAQs
Can I claim against Home Group for structural defects?
Yes. Home Group have a legal duty under Section 11(1)(a), Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 + Defective Premises Act 1972. If you've reported the problem and they've ignored you, you can claim compensation and force the repair. How much you could get depends on how long it went on, how serious it was, and any effect on your health.
How long do Home Group have to fix structural defects?
Under Awaab's Law, Home Group must act within a significant-hazard duty under Awaab's Law: 10 working days to investigate, then 5 working days from the end of that investigation to complete the safety work. If the problem is dangerous (24-hour emergency category), they must act immediately.
What if Home Group have already inspected but done nothing?
An inspection alone doesn't satisfy Awaab's Law. The clock keeps ticking until the repair is done. Keep records of every inspection date and outcome.
Do I need a solicitor to claim against Home Group?
You don't have to use one. You can pursue a complaint yourself. We offer a no-win-no-fee panel of SRA-regulated solicitors. National HA with strong care & support service alongside general needs housing.
Related
Closing thought
National HA with strong care & support service alongside general needs housing. Being a large landlord does not excuse ignoring Awaab's Law. If your home is making you sick, we can help. Call 0800 030 4669 or start your claim online.
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