Insect Infestation Compensation

Living with an insect infestation can be a nightmare for tenants, creating unsanitary and distressing conditions in your home. 

When a property is not properly maintained, it can create ideal conditions for insects to thrive, leading to a significant impact on tenants' health and well-being.

If you're facing an insect infestation due to your landlord's failure to address disrepair, you may be entitled to compensation and legal remedies under housing law.

At SDS Solicitors, we specialise in housing disrepair claims and are here to help you resolve these issues.

With over 25 years of experience, our team can ensure your landlord carries out the necessary repairs while securing the compensation you deserve for the impact on your living conditions.

Understanding Insect Infestations in Housing Disrepair

Insect infestations can arise from underlying disrepair issues that make your home vulnerable to pests.

Defective roofing, for example, can create entry points for insects, while damp conditions or decaying wood can attract infestations like termites or beetles.

Common insects in housing disrepair cases include ants, cockroaches, flies, and wood-destroying insects.

Under UK housing law, landlords are responsible for addressing the disrepair that facilitates infestations. The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 requires landlords to maintain the structure and exterior of the property, including repairing defects that allow insects to enter.

Additionally, the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 obligates landlords to ensure their properties are free from hazards that could endanger tenants’ health or well-being, including pest-related issues stemming from disrepair.

If your landlord has been informed of disrepair issues contributing to an insect infestation but has failed to act, they may be in breach of their legal obligations.

This could make you eligible to pursue a housing disrepair claim.

Inpact of Insect Infestations on Your Home and Well-being

Insect infestations linked to disrepair can have a profound impact on your daily life. Infestations often cause damage to your property, such as chewing through wood, damaging furniture, or contaminating food supplies. The presence of pests can also exacerbate existing disrepair, such as worsening damp or decay.

The health risks posed by infestations are equally concerning. Cockroaches and flies, for instance, can spread harmful bacteria and increase the likelihood of food contamination, while insect bites or allergens may trigger skin irritations or respiratory issues. Beyond the physical impacts, infestations can cause significant emotional distress, leaving tenants feeling unsafe or uncomfortable in their own homes.

If you are dealing with an infestation caused by disrepair, SDS Solicitors is here to help. We will assess your case, advise you on your rights, and guide you through the claims process to ensure that your landlord fulfills their obligations.