No - Win No - Fee
HDR Specialist
Compensation & Repairs Awarded

Independent RICS Survey

We arrange a qualified RICS surveyor to inspect your home and document all disrepair issues.

Letter of Claim

We draft and send a formal Protocol Letter of Claim outlining defects, delays, and the compensation you’re owed.

Negotiation & Settlement

We negotiate repairs, deadlines, and compensation directly with your landlord for a faster resolution.

Court & Enforcement

We take court action and enforce repair orders if your landlord refuses to fix the problems.

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Watch our Housing Disrepair video

We explain what housing disrepair is, how it affects your health and home, and how our Manchester team helps tenants get repairs done and claim fair compensation.

Housing problems can really affect your daily life damp that won’t dry, mould that keeps coming back, boilers that fail in winter, or leaks that ruin ceilings and disrupt your peace of mind. You don’t have to live like this if your landlord isn’t acting.

Get help today by filling in our quick contact form or call our Manchester helpline on 03338808408 for free advice on your housing disrepair claim. If you live in Liverpool or elsewhere in the UK, we can also provide expert support for your housing disrepair issues.

Housing Disrepair Team

What Is Housing Disrepair?

Housing disrepair happens when your rented home becomes unsafe, unhealthy, or difficult to live in because your landlord hasn’t carried out necessary repairs on time. Common issues include damp, mould, leaks, broken heating, unsafe electrics, or pest infestations, all of which can affect your health and daily life.

Landlords have legal responsibilities under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, and Awaab’s Law (2024), which requires faster action on problems like damp and mould. If your landlord isn’t addressing issues you’ve reported, you could have a strong housing disrepair claim to get repairs completed and claim compensation.

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Common Housing Disrepair Issues in Manchester

Housing disrepair claims are guided by landlord responsibilities under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, and Awaab’s Law (2024).

Here are the most common problems we help tenants in Manchester resolve:

Damp and Black Mould

Persistent damp, mould on walls, ceilings, furniture, or even behind wardrobes. These issues are urgent under Awaab’s Law and require fast action because of health risks.

Leaks and Water Damage

Water leaks from roofs, gutters, pipes, or upstairs flats can cause ceiling stains, damaged belongings, and long-term structural damage if ignored.

Broken Heating or Hot Water

Boilers that fail repeatedly or homes without reliable heating or hot water—especially dangerous in winter and a breach of landlord legal obligations.

Unsafe Electrics

Faulty wiring, sparking sockets, tripping circuits, or exposed electrics can create fire and safety hazards. Landlords must address these issues promptly.

Infestation Issues

Rodents, insects, or other pests caused by gaps, leaks, or poor maintenance. Landlords are responsible for resolving infestations linked to the property’s condition.

Structural Defects

Cracked walls, ceilings, rotten windows or doors, and other structural problems that affect safety and the home’s integrity.

Poor Ventilation and Condensation Problems

Homes without proper extraction in kitchens or bathrooms, windows that won’t open, or persistent condensation leading to mould or damage.

Damaged Kitchens or Bathrooms

Broken fittings, leaking sinks, cracked baths, or unsafe flooring that make essential rooms difficult or unsafe to use.

If you live outside Manchester, see how our Bradford housing disrepair team can help.

For more details about our housing disrepair services in Manchester, or to discuss your specific situation, contact our team today

call us FREE on : 03338808408

How Housing Disrepair Affects Your Health

The law not only defines categories of disrepair but also recognises how poor housing conditions can seriously impact your health and daily life. Issues like damp, mould, cold homes, and unsafe electrics are more than inconveniences—they are hazards that landlords must address under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 and Awaab’s Law (2024).

Below are the most common health effects we see among tenants across Manchester:

Breathing Problems & Asthma Flare-Ups
Damp and mould release spores that can trigger asthma attacks, wheezing, coughing, and long-term breathing issues, especially in children.

Respiratory Infections

Cold and damp homes increase the risk of chest infections, sinus problems, and persistent colds due to poor air quality.

Skin Irritation & Allergies

Mould, moisture, and dust from poor ventilation can cause rashes, itching, and worsen existing skin conditions.

Headaches & Fatigue

Cold homes, musty air, and faulty electrics can lead to headaches, dizziness, and general fatigue.

Stress, Anxiety & Sleep Disruption

Ongoing hazards affect mental health. Damp smells, leaking ceilings, or cold rooms often disrupt sleep and daily routines.

High-Risk Groups

Children, older adults, and vulnerable tenants are most affected, making timely repairs even more important.

We can organise an independent RICS survey in Manchester to document disrepair, assess risks, and confirm which repairs your landlord is legally obliged to carry out.

For expert advice or to arrange a free contact form consultation, please fill in our contact form today.

Or fill in our second contact form

What else can we do to convince you?

For more information dont hesitate to get in touch

Who Is Responsible for Repairs? (Clear Breakdown)

Knowing who is responsible for repairs is key in any housing disrepair claim. While it can be frustrating when defects go unresolved for months, the law clearly defines landlords’ duties and tenants’ responsibilities. Following these rules ensures your claim stays strong.

Your Manchester landlord must repair:

  • Structure and exterior, including walls, roofs, and windows
  • Heating and hot-water systems
  • Electrical wiring and installations
  • Plumbing, drains, and sanitary fittings
  • Gas appliances and pipework
  • Ventilation systems
  • Shared or common areas, if your tenancy includes access

These obligations apply throughout the tenancy, regardless of the landlord’s financial position or staffing issues. If something essential breaks, your landlord cannot ignore it.

Tenants should:

  • Report issues as soon as they become aware
  • Allow reasonable access for inspections and repairs
  • Use the property, heating, and ventilation correctly to avoid accidental damage

The Law (Simple Explanation)

  • Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (Section 11) – outlines core repair responsibilities
  • Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 – ensures homes are safe, healthy, and hazard-free
  • Awaab’s Law 2024 – enforces faster action on damp and mould

If you reported the defect and your landlord failed to act within a reasonable timeframe, you may have a strong disrepair claim.

Or fill in our second contact form

Do I Qualify for a Housing Disrepair Claim in Manchester?

Many tenants are unsure if their situation qualifies for a housing disrepair claim. The rules are actually straightforward. If your landlord has ignored or delayed repairs after you reported a problem, you may already meet the criteria. Claims can be made against Manchester Council, housing associations, or private landlords, as long as you hold a valid tenancy.

You may qualify if:

  • You rent your property from Manchester Council, a housing association, or a private landlord
  • You reported the problem using any method — portal, email, phone, or letter
  • Repairs were delayed, ignored, or falsely marked as completed
  • You suffered inconvenience, health issues, or financial loss (e.g., damaged belongings or extra heating costs)

Evidence is key to a strong claim. You don’t need anything complicated—just clear records showing the defect and your landlord’s failure to act.

Helpful evidence includes:

  • Photos or videos showing the problem over time
  • Screenshots, emails, or written letters to your landlord
  • GP notes or letters confirming health impacts
  • Receipts for damaged belongings or extra costs
  • Logs of missed or cancelled repair appointments
  • A diary of how the issue affects your daily life

Our team can help you organise this evidence and build a strong, legally compliant case.

For free advice and a FREE Manchester RICS inspection, please contact us 03338808408.

Or fill in our second contact form

Steps To Take & Housing Disrepair Claim Process in Manchester

Report & Record the Issues

As soon as you notice problems like damp, leaks, broken heating, or unsafe electrics, report them to your landlord. Keep copies of emails, messages from portals, photos, and videos. This evidence is essential for a strong housing disrepair claim.

Free Case Assessment — usually within 24 hours

Our Manchester Housing Disrepair Team reviews your situation, checks when you first reported the problems, and confirms if you are eligible to make a claim. We explain our No Win, No Fee service clearly so you know exactly what to expect before moving forward.

Independent RICS Inspection — typically 7–21 days

We arrange a qualified RICS surveyor to inspect your home, identify all defects, confirm the cause, and outline what repairs your landlord must complete. The RICS report is independent evidence and often helps speed up your claim and settlement.

Letter of Claim under the Pre-Action Protocol

Using your evidence and the RICS report, we draft a formal Letter of Claim to your landlord. This outlines all defects, the repair history, health impacts, and compensation sought under the Housing Conditions Protocol.

Landlord Response Period — 20–30 working days

Your landlord or housing association has a set window to respond, propose repairs, or challenge the evidence. We manage all communication and update you throughout the process.

Negotiation / ADR — often 2–8 weeks

Most Manchester housing disrepair claims settle during negotiation once the evidence and RICS report are clear. We aim to secure both urgent repairs and compensation quickly.

Court Action (Only If Necessary)

If the landlord refuses to cooperate or makes an unfair offer, our panel of regulated solicitors can issue proceedings. Even then, the majority of claims settle before a full hearing.

Outcome, Repairs & Enforcement

Once agreed, you’ll receive a repair schedule with deadlines and compensation for the time you lived with disrepair. If repairs stall, we escalate using compliance terms, Ombudsman routes, or court enforcement.

Typical timeline: Many Manchester claims are resolved in 6–12 months, depending on landlord cooperation, surveyor access, and contractor availability. Urgent hazards may be prioritised sooner.

Do you live in Manchester or nearby areas?

If your property is in Manchester (latitude: 53.48095, longitude: -2.23743) or surrounding areas, our Housing Disrepair Team can help you take action quickly. We assist tenants with urgent repairs and compensation claims.

Call us today on 03338808408 or fill in our quick contact form to get started.

No Win, No Fee Housing Disrepair Claims in Manchester

Transparent, No Upfront Costs from Day One

Our Manchester Housing Disrepair Team offers a clear and simple No Win, No Fee service, so you never pay unless your claim succeeds. There are no hidden fees, no surprises, and we explain every step in plain English before anything begins.

No Upfront Costs

You don’t pay a penny to start your housing disrepair claim. We handle the legal work, review your evidence, and carry out the initial assessment at zero cost. This ensures all tenants in Manchester, including areas like Didsbury, Salford, and Ashton-under-Lyne, can access justice without financial risk.

Only Pay If You Win

With our No Win, No Fee agreement, you are completely protected. If your claim isn’t successful, you pay nothing. If your claim succeeds, the success fee is deducted from your compensation—but only after your landlord has paid.

Success Fee Capped at 25%

By law, the success fee is capped at 25% of your compensation. This keeps costs fair and predictable. Before you agree to proceed, we provide a written, personalised cost breakdown so you know exactly what to expect.

RICS Survey & ATE Insurance Explained

Where a RICS survey or ATE insurance is needed, we explain these clearly at the start.

  • RICS Survey: Independent inspection of your property, documenting all defects and required repairs. FREE.
  • ATE Insurance: Protects you against legal costs if court proceedings are needed. FREE if we win, or taken from compensation if your claim succeeds.

Simple Example

If your total compensation is £4,000, the success fee is £1,000, and you receive £3,000. This reflects typical housing disrepair claims and helps you understand costs in practice.

Full Cost Transparency Before You Start

Before any claim progresses, we provide a clear, written breakdown of the No Win, No Fee agreement and any potential costs. Nothing moves forward without your approval, ensuring complete clarity.

Independent RICS Survey

We arrange a qualified RICS surveyor to inspect your home and document all disrepair issues.

Letter of Claim

We draft and send a formal Protocol Letter of Claim outlining defects, delays, and the compensation you’re owed.

Negotiation & Settlement

We negotiate repairs, deadlines, and compensation directly with your landlord for a faster resolution.

Court & Enforcement

We take court action and enforce repair orders if your landlord refuses to fix the problems.

About Us — Your Manchester Housing Disrepair Team

Our Manchester housing disrepair team is led by experienced, SRA-regulated solicitors with over 20 years of expertise helping tenants take action against Manchester Council, housing associations, and private landlords. We work closely with independent RICS surveyors to assess disrepair and guide you through every step of the claim process.

“Everyone deserves a safe home. Our job is to make landlords listen.” 

We are your trusted no win, no fee housing disrepair solicitors in Manchester, helping tenants secure urgent repairs and compensation quickly.

Compensation You May Receive

Compensation for a Manchester housing disrepair claim is usually calculated as a percentage of your rent during the period of disrepair:

  • Minor issues: 10–25%
  • Moderate disrepair: 25–40%
  • Severe disrepair: 40–50%+

You can also claim for damaged belongings, extra heating costs, dehumidifiers, and other financial losses caused by damp, mould, leaks, or structural defects.

Example: £1,000 rent × 12 months severe disrepair = £4,800–£6,000.

These amounts reflect typical Manchester compensation levels for issues like damp and mould, leaks, and broken heating systems.

Real Results for Tenants in Manchester

Our Manchester housing disrepair team has helped tenants achieve fair compensation and get urgent repairs completed. Here are some typical outcomes from recent Manchester claims:

  • Damp & mould resolved with 40% rent rebate + £2,000 for damaged belongings
  • Roof repairs after landlord dispute + £6,500 compensation
  • Unsafe electrical wiring fixed + £3,800 awarded
  • No heating for 9 months → £2,750 compensation
  • Pest infestation resolved → £1,900 compensation

These examples reflect common results against Manchester Council, local housing associations, and private landlords.

Landlord Defences & Tenant Pitfalls — What to Avoid

Landlords may attempt to avoid responsibility using arguments like:

  • “You never reported it”
  • “It’s lifestyle condensation”
  • “We acted reasonably”

To protect your claim, tenants should keep a detailed paper trail, allow access, report issues promptly, and document any worsening problems.

Our Manchester housing disrepair team handles all landlord defences and ensures your evidence is clear, well-organized, and legally compliant. We prepare your claim from day one so it is strong, enforceable, and protected from common council counter-arguments.

After Your Claim — Ensuring Repairs Actually Happen

Once your compensation is awarded, our Manchester housing disrepair team ensures that your landlord or Manchester Council completes all necessary repairs. This includes:

  • Enforcing timetabled repair works
  • Securing compliance orders
  • Applying for unless orders if deadlines are missed
  • Claiming additional damages when works are delayed
  • Seeking injunctions for urgent hazards
  • Escalating ongoing issues to the Housing Ombudsman when necessary

You won’t have to chase contractors yourself — we monitor every stage until your home is fully safe, compliant, and habitable.

Accessibility & Tenant Support

We provide full accessibility support for tenants across Manchester, including:

  • Interpreters and translation services
  • Large-print PDFs and accessible documentation
  • WhatsApp and email updates for convenient communication
  • Tailored support for vulnerable tenants, with advocates or support workers welcome

Just tell us your needs — we adapt our approach to ensure every tenant receives the help they require.

Our Manchester housing disrepair solicitors are committed to making the claims process straightforward, stress-free, and fully supported from start to finish.

Start Your Birmingham Housing Disrepair Claim Today

Free RICS survey
Local Manchester specialists
No win no fee
Regulated professionals: SRA | ICO | RICS

call us Free on 03338808408 (open 7 days) or complete the 30-second form

What happens next?

We confirm eligibility →arrange RICS survey → submit Letter of Claim → keep you updated until repairs and compensation are completed and compensation are completed.

Housing Disrepair FAQs for Manchester

How do I start a housing disrepair claim?

You can start by filling out our quick contact form or calling our Manchester helpline. We provide a free case assessment, organise a RICS survey to document the issues, and guide you through the legal process—all with no upfront costs.

Can I still claim if I’ve moved out of the property?

Yes. As long as the disrepair happened during your tenancy and you reported it, you can still claim compensation. Evidence such as photos, emails, repair logs, or GP letters will strengthen your case.

How does your No Win, No Fee agreement work?

You pay nothing upfront.
You only pay a fee if your claim wins — capped at 25% by law and taken from your compensation. If your claim doesn’t succeed, you pay nothing.

Can I make a claim if I rent from Manchester Council or a Housing Association?

Yes. We handle claims for tenants renting from Manchester Council, housing associations, and private landlords. As long as you are (or were) a tenant and reported the issues, you may qualify.

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Based on 83 reviews

Natisha Antionette

2024-05-01

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First of all I would like to say how fantastic SLS solicitors are and if you are looking for a solicitor that will have good communication and are reliable i will say look...

Gio Gauchey

2025-01-01

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I have found SLS to be utterly professional and they have resolved my issue far sooner than it would have been had I continued trying to contact the agent and the Council myself.

Geoff Philips

2025-05-01

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I would definitely recommend SLS Solicitors Ltd for any disrepair claims against a local authority landlord – they are an upfront no win no fee firm and when they take your case on...