Housing disrepair refers to any situation where a rented property is not properly maintained by a landlord, leading to unsafe or unhealthy living conditions. In Croydon, tenants are entitled to live in homes that meet legal standards for safety, cleanliness, and functionality. If a landlord fails to repair essential issues such as damp, mould, leaks, structural damage, or faulty heating, you may be entitled to compensation.
Croydon is home to a mix of private and social housing. With high demand and ageing housing stock, disrepair complaints are common. At Marley Solicitors, we help tenants in Croydon understand their rights and take legal action when necessary.
What qualifies as housing disrepair?
Housing disrepair can include any problem that makes a property unsafe or unsuitable for living. Examples include:
- Damp or black mould on walls and ceilings
- Leaking pipes or roofs
- Broken windows or doors
- Faulty heating systems
- Pest infestations (mice, rats, bedbugs)
- Structural cracks
- Unsafe electrics
- Blocked drains or sewage issues
- Inadequate insulation causing extreme cold
Landlords are legally obligated to carry out repairs within a reasonable timeframe once they have been notified of the issue.
Am I eligible to make a housing disrepair claim in Croydon?
Yes. If you live in Croydon and your landlord has failed to fix a serious problem after being made aware, you may be eligible to make a housing disrepair claim. You could receive compensation for:
- Damage to your belongings (furniture, clothing, electronics)
- Health problems caused by dampness, mould, or pests
- Higher energy bills due to poor insulation
- Emotional stress and inconvenience
This applies to both council housing tenants and private renters. Our team at Marley Solicitors can assess your case quickly and let you know if you have a valid claim.
What should I do if my landlord is ignoring repairs?
If your landlord refuses to act, take the following steps:
- Document the disrepair – Take photos or videos of the issue
- Report it in writing – Keep copies of letters, emails, or texts
- Get medical evidence – See your GP if your health is affected
- Keep records – Save receipts for any damaged property or extra costs
- Speak to a solicitor – Marley Solicitors offers free consultations
We can help you gather the necessary evidence and build a strong claim.
How long does a disrepair claim take?
Most housing disrepair claims are expected to be resolved within 3 to 12 months, depending on the complexity of the issue and how quickly the landlord responds. If the case goes to court, it may take longer, but many landlords prefer to settle once legal proceedings begin.
We will manage all communication with the landlord or housing authority and keep you updated throughout the process.
Local housing context in Croydon
Croydon Council oversees a large number of social housing properties, and many residents live in older buildings where maintenance delays are common. People regularly report issues like mould and heating problems, particularly during the winter months.
If you are a tenant in areas like Thornton Heath, New Addington, or South Norwood and are struggling to get repairs done, Marley Solicitors can help. We also represent private renters across the borough.
How much compensation can I receive?
Compensation depends on how serious the disrepair is and how it has affected your life. Typical awards cover:
- Property damage: cost of replacing ruined items
- Pain and suffering: illnesses caused by damp or mould
- Financial loss: extra heating bills or cleaning costs
- Inconvenience: disruption to daily life or sleep
In some cases, courts award 25% to 50% of your rent for the time the property was uninhabitable. Severe cases may result in higher awards, especially if medical conditions were made worse.
Croydon services and support
Croydon residents can report housing problems or seek health support from the following:
- Croydon Council Housing Repairs – report council property issues
- Croydon University Hospital – for respiratory issues linked to mould or damp
- Purley War Memorial Hospital – for outpatient care
- GP surgeries in Croydon – for medical records and treatment notes
- Citizens Advice Croydon – basic housing rights guidance
- Shelter – general support for housing emergencies
Our team works with local agencies and experts to support your case with strong evidence.
Why choose Marley Solicitors?
Marley Solicitors is committed to helping tenants in Croydon enforce their housing rights. We have successfully represented clients against councils, housing associations, and private landlords.
With Marley Solicitors, you receive:
- Free initial consultation
- A dedicated legal advisor for your case
- Clear advice on eligibility and next steps
- Evidence gathering support
- Court representation where needed
- We offer “no win, no fee” options for cases that meet eligibility criteria
Our goal is to resolve your case quickly and secure the compensation and repairs you deserve.
FAQs
Can I be evicted for making a claim?
No. It is illegal for a landlord to evict you in retaliation for raising repair issues or making a legitimate claim. If you are worried, we will protect your rights throughout the process.
What if I have moved out of the property?
You can still make a claim if the disrepair occurred while you were a tenant. As long as the issue was reported and evidence is available, you may still be entitled to compensation.
Does this apply to shared accommodation?
Yes. You can make a claim even if you live in a shared flat or house, as long as you are a tenant and the property is in disrepair.
Do I need to speak to the landlord again?
Not necessarily. Once you contact Marley Solicitors, we can manage the communication for you and start formal proceedings if needed.
Can I claim if I am on housing benefit?
Yes. Your benefit status does not affect your right to live in a safe, habitable property. We can help you claim regardless of your income or employment status.
Take action now: Contact Marley Solicitors in Croydon
If your home is in disrepair and your landlord is not taking action, do not wait. Contact Marley Solicitors today for expert legal help. We are proud to assist tenants in Croydon with fast, reliable support.
Call now or send us a message to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation
