Housing Disrepair Claim for Structural Damage

William Ford

Our solicitors  successfully represented a client in a disrepair claim against a landlord involving structural damage and  severe damp in her Housing Association property. The case highlighted significant failures by the landlord, resulting in prolonged uncertainty for the tenant.

Damp Housing Association property

The client was a tenant of a one-bedroom Housing Association property that was severely affected by damp, particularly in the bathroom, living room, and kitchen. The main cause of the disrepair was water entering the property through a rotten rear garden door and damaged window, further exacerbated by a buddleia plant growing within the brickwork of the rear garden wall. This plant had caused considerable structural damage, with the external wall requiring a full rebuild to resolve the issue.

At the time the client instructed Osbornes Law, she had been living in temporary accommodation for six months while waiting for the housing association to address the structural damage. Despite this, the housing association had failed to provide any clear information regarding when, or if, the client could return to her home, leaving her in a state of ongoing uncertainty.

Lack of communication from landlord

Frustrated by the lack of communication and the prolonged nature of her displacement, the client sought legal assistance from Osbornes Law. Our solicitors acted swiftly, sending a Letter Before Action to the Housing Association and demanding clarity on the situation and suitable permanent accommodation for the client.

Given the extent of the disrepair and the time the client had already spent in temporary accommodation, Osbornes Law prioritised resolving the case as quickly as possible to avoid any further distress or uncertainty.

Landlord agreed to pay £5,000 in compensation

As a result of our intervention, the client was permanently decanted to alternative accommodation, bringing much-needed stability to her housing situation. In addition, her landlord agreed to pay £5,000 in compensation for the disrepair the client endured while living in the property before being decanted.

Osbornes Law Solicitor commented

“We worked swiftly to ensure that our client’s case was concluded as soon as possible and to avoid any further uncertainty regarding her housing situation. It was troubling for our client, who did not know how long she would be in temporary accommodation or where she would live long term,” – Osbornes Law Solicitor

Are you experiencing housing disrepair issues?

If you are experiencing housing disrepair and need legal assistance, Osbornes Law can help. Our experienced housing solicitors have a proven track record of holding landlords accountable and ensuring tenants receive the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.