Many tenants worry about raising complaints to their landlord, especially when the disrepair is significant. A common concern is: Can I be evicted for reporting housing disrepair? The answer depends on your circumstances, but it’s important to understand your rights and the protections available to you under the law.
Understanding Retaliatory Eviction
Retaliatory eviction occurs when a landlord tries to remove a tenant from the property after they’ve made a legitimate complaint—especially if that complaint involves serious issues like damp, mould, leaks, or structural defects. In England, protections were strengthened under the Deregulation Act 2015, which prevents landlords from issuing a Section 21 eviction notice for six months if:
- The tenant has complained in writing about housing conditions, and
- The local council has served a notice requiring the landlord to carry out repairs.
This means that tenants who report genuine housing disrepair issues and follow the correct procedure are protected from immediate eviction.
You Have a Right to Live in a Safe Home
Landlords have a legal duty to keep rental properties in good condition. If they fail to make necessary repairs, tenants may be entitled to housing disrepair compensation. This includes situations where poor conditions have affected your health or well-being, or where you’ve had to live without heating, hot water, or safe living conditions for an extended period.
By reporting disrepair, you’re asserting your legal right to live in a home that meets basic safety and habitability standards. Landlords who fail in their duties should not be allowed to intimidate tenants into silence.
How to Protect Yourself
If you’re concerned about eviction after making a complaint, you can take steps to protect yourself:
- Put All Complaints in Writing – Always email or write to your landlord about issues so you have a record.
- Involve the Council – If your landlord doesn’t act, your local council’s environmental health team can inspect the property and issue a notice.
- Seek Legal Support – Specialist solicitors can support you in pursuing no win no fee housing disrepair claims and ensuring your rights are protected.
Claiming Housing Disrepair Compensation
If you’ve suffered due to your landlord’s inaction, you may be entitled to housing disrepair compensation. This can cover:
- Physical damage to belongings caused by leaks or damp
- Medical issues linked to mould and poor living conditions
- Inconvenience and distress
Many solicitors now offer no win no fee housing disrepair claims, allowing tenants to seek justice without worrying about upfront legal costs.
How Greenbank Lawyers Can Help
At Greenbank Lawyers, we specialise in housing disrepair compensation claims for tenants living in council or housing association properties. Our experienced team understands the challenges tenants face and is committed to securing the compensation you deserve. We offer a no win no fee housing disrepair claims service, meaning there’s no financial risk to you. Let us help you hold negligent landlords accountable and ensure your home is safe, secure, and properly maintained. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation.
