Most tenants assume that if they report disrepair… whether it’s a leaking roof, faulty heating, or dangerous electrics… their landlord is legally obligated to fix it. While this is technically true, landlords often find ways to delay, deny, or outright avoid their responsibilities. Many use legal loopholes to sidestep repairs, leaving tenants stuck in substandard living conditions.
If you’re struggling with housing disrepair and wondering why your landlord isn’t taking action, here’s what might be happening behind the scenes.
1. The ‘We Never Received Your Complaint’ Excuse
Some landlords claim they were never informed about a repair issue, even when tenants have reported problems multiple times. Without written proof, they can argue that they had no legal obligation to act. Solution: Always submit repair requests in writing via email or recorded post and keep copies of all communications.
2. Deliberate Delays and ‘Backlog’ Tactics
Landlords often claim they are ‘looking into it’ or that repairs are delayed due to contractor availability. In reality, they may be stalling in the hope that tenants give up or move out. While minor delays can be genuine, long-term inaction is not acceptable.
Solution: If a landlord refuses to complete essential repairs within a reasonable timeframe, tenants can take legal action to force compliance or claim compensation.
3. Blaming the Tenant for Disrepair
A common tactic is shifting responsibility onto the tenant, arguing that disrepair is caused by negligence. For example, they may claim mould is due to poor ventilation rather than a structural issue. Some landlords even attempt to charge tenants for repairs that legally fall under their responsibility.
Solution: Understanding your rights is key. Landlords are responsible for maintaining the structure, heating, plumbing, and electrical systems of a property. If they try to shift blame, legal intervention may be necessary.
4. Using ‘Retaliatory Eviction’ to Avoid Repairs
Under Section 21 of the Housing Act (commonly known as the ‘no-fault eviction’), landlords can serve eviction notices without providing a reason. Some landlords exploit this by evicting tenants who demand repairs rather than dealing with the issue.
Solution: If you reported a repair issue before receiving an eviction notice, you might be protected under the Deregulation Act 2015, which prevents retaliatory evictions in some cases. Seeking legal advice is crucial in these situations.
5. Hiding Behind Managing Agents
Many landlords distance themselves from repair issues by deflecting responsibility to property managers or letting agents. Tenants often find themselves trapped in a cycle where the agent blames the landlord, and the landlord claims the agent is handling it—resulting in nothing getting fixed.
Solution: Legally, the responsibility still lies with the landlord. If the managing agent is failing to act, tenants can pursue a direct complaint against the landlord.
6. Ignoring Health and Safety Breaches
Some landlords avoid repairs even when they breach health and safety laws. Issues like gas leaks, faulty electrics, or severe damp can pose serious risks, yet some landlords fail to act unless forced.
Solution: If your home has serious hazards, you can report the issue to Environmental Health. If they find your home unfit for living, they can issue a legal notice forcing your landlord to make repairs.
How to Fight Back Against Negligent Landlords
If you’re dealing with a landlord who refuses to fulfil their legal obligations, you don’t have to accept it. There are legal options available to force repairs and even claim compensation for distress, inconvenience, or financial loss.
At Ask Legal Solicitors, we specialise in holding landlords accountable. We can help you:
- Enforce your rights and demand repairs.
- Take legal action if your landlord refuses to comply.
- Secure compensation for any harm caused by disrepair.
Take Action Today – Call Us Now
You don’t have to put up with a landlord who ignores their legal duties. Call us today at 0161 436 0000 for expert legal support. Let’s ensure you get the safe and habitable home you deserve.
