Housing Disrepair Compensation Calculator
Compensation Estimate
Rent Reduction (%)-
Rent Reduction Amount-
General Damages-
Health Damages-
Total Estimated Compensation-
Typical Compensation Awards
| Issue | Severity | Typical Award |
|---|---|---|
| Damp & Mould | Moderate | £1,000–£5,000 |
| Heating Failure | Severe (winter) | £3,000–£8,000 |
| Structural Issues | Severe | £5,000–£15,000 |
| Pest Infestation | Moderate | £1,500–£4,000 |
| Roof Leaks | Moderate-Severe | £2,000–£10,000 |
Key Facts
Typical Rent Reduction
25–50%
Claim Window
6 Years
Landlord Notice
Required
How to Use This Calculator
1
Enter your monthly rent
Your rent amount is used to calculate the appropriate rent reduction percentage.
2
Enter duration of disrepair
How many months the disrepair has persisted since you notified the landlord.
3
Select severity level
Choose the severity that best matches your situation, from minor cosmetic issues to uninhabitable conditions.
4
Select health impact
If the disrepair has caused health problems, select the appropriate severity level.
5
Review compensation estimate
See rent reduction, general damages and health damages combined.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is housing disrepair?
Housing disrepair is when a landlord fails to maintain the property in a reasonable state of repair after being notified of issues. Under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords must keep the structure, exterior, heating, hot water and sanitation in repair.
Do I need to notify my landlord first?
Yes. Your landlord must be given reasonable notice of the disrepair before they can be liable. Always report issues in writing (email or letter) and keep copies. Your landlord has a reasonable time to carry out repairs after notification.
How is compensation calculated?
Compensation typically includes: (1) rent reduction for diminished enjoyment, (2) general damages for inconvenience and distress, and (3) special damages for any health impacts or property damage caused by the disrepair.
Can I withhold rent?
Generally, you should not withhold rent without legal advice as this can lead to eviction proceedings. Instead, report the issue and seek legal advice about making a formal claim.
What if my landlord is a council or housing association?
The same rules apply to social landlords. Council tenants and housing association tenants have the same rights to repairs and compensation as private tenants.
Should I use a no-win no-fee solicitor?
Many housing disrepair solicitors work on a no-win no-fee basis. However, check their fees carefully as they typically take 25-35% of your compensation. For smaller claims, you may be better off using the Housing Ombudsman or county court small claims track.
Official Sources & References
- GOV.UK — Private Renting Repairs
- Citizens Advice — Repairs in Rented Housing
- Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 s.11
Data verified against official UK government sources. Last checked April 2026.