Structural defects at Peabody
If you rent from Peabody 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 Peabody must do and how to act.
Why this matters
Peabody's age profile means many homes are structurally prone to damp without active management. Tenants reporting mould often face long surveyor wait times. A 2024 independent statutory review highlighted repeated cases where Peabody investigated but failed to action repairs within Awaab's Law-equivalent timeframes (24-hour emergency / 10-working-day significant). 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 Peabody 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), Peabody 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: Peabody complaints team (visit their website for the current address)
FAQs
Can I claim against Peabody for structural defects?
Yes. Peabody 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 Peabody have to fix structural defects?
Under Awaab's Law, Peabody 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 Peabody 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 Peabody?
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. London-focused HA, second-largest after Clarion. C2 consumer grade, weaknesses in Safety & Quality standard. Founded 1862.
Related
Closing thought
London-focused HA, second-largest after Clarion. C2 consumer grade, weaknesses in Safety & Quality standard. Founded 1862. 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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