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A Complete Checklist for Reporting Rental Property Issues

A Complete Checklist for Reporting Rental Property Issues
By - james Michle 6 min read 0 views

Whether you're renting a council property or living in a privately let flat, one thing remains the same: your landlord has a legal duty to ensure the property is safe, secure, and fit for human habitation. From leaking ceilings and faulty heating systems to broken locks and pest infestations, all of these fall under “housing disrepair” — and you, as the tenant, have the right to demand repairs.

However, many tenants don’t know what exactly counts as disrepair or how to report problems properly. This comprehensive checklist will help you understand your rights, what to report, and how to do it effectively. And if your landlord continues to ignore your concerns, trusted housing disrepair experts like The Housing Disrepair can help you take legal action and claim compensation.

Why Reporting Disrepair Matters

Living with property issues not only impacts your comfort — it can also put your health and safety at risk. Mould can cause respiratory problems, faulty electrics can lead to fire hazards, and broken locks can compromise your security. The longer the problem is ignored, the more dangerous and costly it can become.

By reporting issues early and keeping a clear record, you can protect your wellbeing and, if necessary, build a strong legal case.

The Complete Reporting Checklist for Tenants

Here’s a step-by-step guide to identifying and reporting common housing disrepair issues:

1. Leaks and Water Damage

  • Check ceilings, walls, and floors for signs of water stains or bubbling paint

  • Report dripping taps, leaking toilets, and faulty plumbing

  • Note any signs of rising damp or water ingress after rain

2. Damp and Mould

  • Look for black or green patches on walls or around windows

  • Report a musty smell or condensation build-up

  • Document health impacts like coughing, asthma, or skin irritations

3. Heating and Hot Water

  • Check whether radiators are functioning and if your boiler works reliably

  • Report no hot water, especially during cold months

  • Make note of any periods without central heating

4. Electrical Issues

  • Report flickering lights, faulty sockets, or exposed wiring

  • Ensure all electrical fittings are safe and functional

  • Take note of any power outages or tripping breakers

5. Security Issues

  • Check that all doors and windows close and lock securely

  • Report broken locks, missing keys, or unsecured entry points

  • Consider your safety and the risk of burglary

6. Structural Problems

  • Report cracks in walls or ceilings

  • Look for signs of sagging floors or leaking roofs

  • Note any damage to external walls, guttering, or chimneys

7. Pest Infestations

  • Report rodents, insects, or signs of nests or droppings

  • Identify how the pests are entering (gaps, vents, damp)

  • Mention any damage caused by pests to furniture or belongings

8. Plumbing and Drainage

  • Report slow-draining sinks, blocked toilets, or strange smells

  • Take note of any signs of sewage backup or water pooling

  • Include photos or videos where possible

How to Report Housing Disrepair Properly

  1. Put It in Writing
    Always report issues to your landlord or letting agent in writing—email is best. Verbal complaints are hard to prove.

  2. Describe the Issue Clearly
    Be specific. For example, instead of “there’s damp,” say “there is black mould covering the corner of the bedroom ceiling.”

  3. Include Evidence
    Take photos, videos, or even record sound (e.g., if you have a dripping leak or buzzing fuse box). This supports your claim and shows the problem is real.

  4. Keep a Timeline
    Record the date you first reported the problem and any responses you receive. This is crucial if the issue escalates.

  5. Follow Up
    If you haven’t had a response within 14 days (or sooner for urgent problems), send a follow-up message reminding them of their duty.

What If Your Landlord Ignores You?

If your landlord refuses to fix the issues, delays repairs, or provides substandard solutions, you have options:

  • Contact your local council
    Environmental Health officers can inspect your home and issue repair notices to the landlord.

  • Seek legal help
    You can file a housing disrepair claim with help from housing disrepair experts like The Housing Disrepair. They’ll support you through the legal process and help you secure repairs and compensation.

You May Be Entitled to Compensation

If the disrepair has affected your health, finances, or quality of life, you may be eligible to claim:

  • Compensation for pain, suffering, and inconvenience

  • Reimbursement for damaged belongings

  • Recovery of additional expenses (e.g., higher energy bills or medical costs)

  • Compensation for loss of enjoyment of your home

Why Choose The Housing Disrepair?

At The Housing Disrepair, we believe no tenant should have to live in unsafe or unsanitary conditions. Our team of experienced housing disrepair experts offers:

  • Free initial consultations

  • No win, no fee representation

  • Fast, efficient claims processing

  • Support from surveyors and legal advisors

Whether you're facing persistent leaks, heating failures, or mould, we’re here to get the results you deserve.

Don’t suffer in silence. If your landlord is failing to act, get in touch with the Housing Disrepair Experts and start your claim today. You deserve a home that’s safe, healthy, and legally compliant.