Broken Windows and Doors: How Tenants Can Claim for Housing Disrepair

Windows and doors are vital parts of every home. They provide security, keep out the cold, and protect tenants from the elements. When they are broken or damaged, living conditions can quickly become unsafe and uncomfortable. Unfortunately, many landlords ignore their responsibility to repair broken windows and doors, leaving tenants exposed to danger, higher bills, and health problems.

If your landlord has failed to repair broken doors or windows in your property, you may be entitled to make a housing disrepair claim. At Housing Disrepair Claims, our team of housing disrepair experts and skilled housing disrepair solicitors have helped thousands of tenants secure urgent repairs and win a housing disrepair compensation claim.

This guide explains your rights, the risks of broken windows and doors, and how to take legal action for the compensation you deserve.

Why Broken Windows and Doors Are Serious Housing Disrepair Issues

1. Security Risks

Broken doors and windows leave tenants vulnerable to:

• Burglary and theft.

• Anti-social behaviour.

• Feeling unsafe in their own home.

2. Health Concerns

When windows and doors are damaged, tenants are exposed to:

• Cold drafts and damp conditions.

• Increased risk of respiratory illnesses.

• Stress, anxiety, and lack of sleep due to safety concerns.

3. Higher Living Costs

A broken window or poorly sealed door allows heat to escape, forcing tenants to spend more on energy bills.

4. Reduced Quality of Life

Tenants may avoid using certain rooms due to cold, leaks, or safety fears, making parts of their home uninhabitable.

Landlord Responsibilities

By law, landlords are required to:

• Keep the structure and exterior of the property in good repair.

• Fix broken windows, doors, locks, and frames.

• Ensure homes are secure and weatherproof.

• Carry out repairs in a reasonable timeframe once notified.

Failure to meet these obligations can make landlords liable for a compensation claim for housing disrepair.

What Can Tenants Claim For?

At Housing Disrepair Claims, we help tenants pursue compensation for:

• Health Issues – illnesses caused by cold, damp, and insecurity.

• Distress and Inconvenience – stress from feeling unsafe and disrupted daily life.

• Damaged Belongings – items ruined by leaks or exposure to the elements.

• Increased Costs – heating bills made worse by drafts and heat loss.

• Loss of Enjoyment – being unable to use your home as intended.

• Rent Refunds – compensation for paying rent while your property was unsafe or uninhabitable.

Steps to Take If You Have Broken Windows or Doors

1. Report the Problem in Writing

Inform your landlord by email or letter. Keep copies of all communication.

2. Collect Evidence

• Photos and videos of the damage.

• Utility bills showing increased costs.

• Medical records if your health has been affected.

3. Contact Housing Disrepair Claims

Our housing disrepair experts will review your case and assign you the best housing disrepair solicitors to take legal action on your behalf.

How Solicitors Help With Your Claim

At Housing Disrepair Claims, our solicitors:

• Assess your case free of charge.

• Draft a Letter of Claim demanding urgent repairs.

• Negotiate a fair housing disrepair compensation claim with your landlord.

• Represent you in court if your landlord refuses to cooperate.

With the best housing disrepair solicitors, you’ll have the experience and expertise needed to succeed.

Common Landlord Excuses

Landlords often try to delay repairs with excuses such as:

• “It’s only a minor crack.”

• “The window still works, so it’s not urgent.”

• “We’ll repair it when we can afford to.”

But legally, landlords must act within a reasonable timeframe to protect tenant safety. With Housing Disrepair Claims, these excuses won’t hold up.

Real-Life Example

One family we assisted reported a broken front door lock to their landlord. Despite repeated requests, no action was taken for over four months. During this time, the family lived in fear of intruders and were forced to barricade the door themselves. With our help, they pursued a housing disrepair compensation claim and secured £5,500 in compensation plus urgent repairs.

Another tenant suffered from constant drafts and rising heating bills because of broken window seals. Their landlord ignored them for a year. With the support of our housing disrepair solicitors, they recovered over £3,000 for extra energy costs and distress.

Tenant Rights Under Housing Law

UK tenants are protected by law when it comes to broken windows and doors:

• Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 – requires landlords to maintain the structure and exterior of rented properties.

• Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 – ensures properties must be free from hazards that risk tenant health and safety.

• Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) – includes security and weatherproofing as part of habitability standards.

If your landlord fails to uphold these obligations, you have the right to take legal action with the help of housing disrepair experts.

Compensation Amounts for Broken Windows and Doors

The amount of compensation depends on:

• Severity of the disrepair.

• Length of time repairs were ignored.

• Impact on your health and daily life.

Typical compensation can range from £1,000 to £7,500, with severe cases exceeding this amount. Our team at Housing Disrepair Claims works tirelessly to ensure you receive the maximum settlement possible.

Practical Tips for Tenants

Before starting your claim:

• Keep a diary of how long you’ve lived with broken windows or doors.

• Contact your local council’s Environmental Health team for support.

• Keep receipts for extra expenses, like higher heating bills.

These steps will strengthen your case when working with our housing disrepair solicitors.

Why Choose Housing Disrepair Claims?

We’re trusted across the UK because:

• ✅ We specialise only in housing disrepair claims.

• ✅ We work with the best housing disrepair solicitors nationwide.

• ✅ We operate on a no win, no fee basis.

• ✅ We’ve recovered millions in housing disrepair compensation claims.

• ✅ We act quickly to secure urgent repairs for tenants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if my landlord eventually repaired the window or door?
A: You can still claim compensation for the time you lived in unsafe conditions.

Q: Can I claim if I rent from the council or a housing association?
A: Yes. Social landlords have the same obligations as private landlords.

Q: How long does the process take?
A: Most claims are resolved in 3–6 months.

Q: Will my rent be reduced during the claim?
A: You may be entitled to a rent refund as part of your compensation.

Final Thoughts

Broken windows and doors make homes unsafe, unhealthy, and uninhabitable. If your landlord has failed to repair them, you are entitled to take legal action and claim compensation.

At Housing Disrepair Claims, our team of housing disrepair experts and dedicated housing disrepair solicitors will guide you through the process, secure urgent repairs, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

📞 Contact Housing Disrepair Claims today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice.