Water Damage & Flooding Disrepair Compensation

Flooding and water damage can severely affect the quality and safety of your home, causing significant disruption and harm to both property and health.

As a tenant, living with these conditions can be highly distressing, especially if you are waiting for your landlord to resolve the problem. In social housing, whether managed by a council, housing association, or registered provider, landlords have a legal duty to ensure your home is kept in a safe and habitable state.

Failure to address flooding and water damage may entitle you to pursue a housing disrepair claim, which can lead to both essential repairs and compensation.

At SDS, we understand the serious impact flooding and water damage can have on your life.

With over 25 years of experience in housing disrepair claims, our team is here to support you. We will work tirelessly to ensure your landlord carries out the necessary repairs and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Flooding and Water Damage in Housing Disrepair

Legally, under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords are required to maintain the structure and exterior of the property, including plumbing, gutters, and drains​.

Additionally, under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords must ensure that properties are safe and habitable, free from hazards that can affect health​.

If your landlord has been informed of these issues and failed to take action, you have the right to make a housing disrepair claim.

Our solicitors can assess your case, provide guidance on the legal process, and help you secure the repairs your home needs.

What Disrepair Issues Can Cause Water Damage?

Water damage in rented properties can result from a range of maintenance issues that are, under the law, the landlord’s responsibility to repair and prevent. Key causes of water damage include:

Leaking Pipes and Plumbing Failures

One of the most common sources of water damage is unresolved leaks in plumbing systems. If pipes, water supply lines, or fixtures such as sinks and baths are faulty or poorly maintained, they can allow water to seep into walls, floors, and ceilings, causing dampness and, eventually, significant structural damage.

Faulty or Blocked Drains and Gutters

Gutters and drainage systems that are blocked, cracked, or otherwise faulty can cause rainwater to accumulate and overflow. When water is not properly channelled away from the property, it can penetrate walls or flood basements, leading to extensive water damage.

Roof Damage and Defective Flashing

Cracked or missing roof tiles, defective flashing around chimneys, and other issues with roofing can result in water ingress during rainfall, causing damage to ceilings and upper floors.

Inadequate Damp-Proofing and Waterproofing

Many older properties are prone to rising damp due to inadequate damp-proof courses or waterproofing, which should ideally protect against ground moisture seeping up into walls and floors.

Malfunctioning or Poorly Installed Windows and Doors

Windows and doors that do not close properly or lack adequate sealing can allow rainwater to enter the property. Over time, this can lead to water damage around window and door frames and may compromise insulation, leading to cold, damp conditions.

Each of these disrepair issues represents a potential hazard to the structural integrity of the property and the health and well-being of tenants.

If you are experiencing water damage due to any of these issues, SDS Solicitors can provide expert legal assistance, helping you to take action and ensure your landlord addresses the problems promptly.