Housing disrepair is stressful enough on its own but when the damage is caused by a neighbour, the situation can quickly become confusing. Many tenants and homeowners ask the same question:
Can you claim compensation for housing disrepair caused by a neighbour?
The short answer is yes, but who you claim against and how you proceed depends on your living situation, the type of damage, and whether your landlord has taken action.
This guide explains your rights, responsibilities, and legal options in clear terms.
Yes. Housing disrepair can be caused by neighbouring properties in several ways, including:
A burst pipe or overflowing bath next door
Water penetration from a poorly maintained roof or wall
Structural collapse or falling debris
Damp or mould spreading from an adjoining property
Fire or electrical faults originating next door
Even though the problem starts elsewhere, you should not be left to live with the consequences.
If you rent your home (from a council, housing association, or private landlord), your landlord is usually your first point of responsibility, even if the damage comes from a neighbour.
Under housing law, landlords must ensure that rental properties are:
Safe
Structurally sound
Free from serious health hazards
This duty applies regardless of where the disrepair originates.
You should report the issue to your landlord in writing
Your landlord must investigate and take reasonable steps to fix the problem
If they fail to act within a reasonable time, you may be able to:
Make a housing disrepair claim
Seek compensation for inconvenience, health issues, and damaged belongings
Your landlord may later recover costs from the neighbour or their insurer but that is not your responsibility.
In some situations, yes. You may be able to take action directly against a neighbour if:
The damage was caused by their negligence (for example, ignoring known leaks)
The damage was intentional, such as vandalism
The neighbour is a homeowner, not a tenant, and your landlord cannot resolve the issue
These claims are usually based on nuisance or negligence law and may be handled through insurers, mediation, or the courts.
If the damage was accidental such as an unexpected water leak this does not automatically remove liability.
In these cases:
The neighbour’s home insurance may cover the damage
You may claim for damaged belongings through contents insurance
Your landlord must still ensure repairs are completed promptly
Accidental damage can still justify compensation if it caused prolonged disruption or health issues.
If the damage was deliberate or involved anti-social or criminal behaviour, you should take additional steps:
Report serious incidents to the police (non-emergency 101 where appropriate)
Inform your landlord immediately
Contact your local council if there is a health or safety risk
You may still pursue a housing disrepair claim for the condition of your home, alongside any criminal or civil action.
Strong evidence is essential for a successful housing disrepair claim. You should gather:
Photos and videos of the damage
Copies of repair requests sent to your landlord
Records of how long the problem has lasted
Receipts for damaged items or extra costs (heating, dehumidifiers, travel)
Medical evidence if your health has been affected
The more detailed your evidence, the stronger your claim.
Depending on your situation, compensation may cover:
Damage to belongings (furniture, clothing, appliances)
Health problems caused by damp, mould, or unsafe conditions
Inconvenience and distress
Higher utility bills or other financial losses
Rent reduction or rebate if parts of your home were unusable
Each case is assessed individually, based on severity and duration.
Before starting legal action, it’s usually best to follow these steps:
Report the issue to your landlord in writing
Keep records of all communication
Allow reasonable time for repairs
Seek legal advice if no action is taken
You do not need to confront your neighbour directly if you feel uncomfortable especially where conflict or safety is a concern.
Housing disrepair caused by a neighbour can be complicated, but you still have clear legal rights. In most cases, your landlord remains responsible for ensuring your home is safe and habitable.
If repairs are delayed or ignored, you may be entitled to repairs, compensation, or both even when the damage started next door.
If you are unsure who is responsible or whether you can claim, speaking to a housing disrepair specialist can help you understand your options and protect your rights.
