Gutters & Roofing Disrepair Compensation

Defective roofing and guttering can cause severe damage to your home and pose significant risks to your safety and well-being. Water ingress, damp, and leaks resulting from faulty roofs or blocked gutters can lead to health issues, property damage, and even structural hazards.

If you are a tenant in social housing, such as a council house or flat, or a property managed by a housing association or charitable organisation, it’s your landlord's responsibility to ensure that your home remains safe and in good condition.

If they have failed to repair issues with your roofing or guttering after being informed, you may be entitled to compensation through a housing disrepair claim.

At SDS Solicitors, we understand how frustrating and harmful these issues can be. Our expert housing disrepair solicitors are committed to helping tenants secure the repairs they need and obtaining fair compensation for the damage caused. With over 25 years of experience, we know how to handle landlords who ignore their legal obligations.

The Impact of Defective Roofing and Guttering

Issues with the roof and gutters can lead to a wide range of problems in your home. These include:

• Damp and Mould: When the roof or gutters are damaged or blocked, water can seep into your home, causing damp patches and mould growth. This is especially harmful to those with respiratory conditions, children, and the elderly.
• Structural Damage: Prolonged exposure to water can weaken the structure of your home, including walls, ceilings, and foundations. This not only makes your home unsafe but can also result in expensive repairs.
• Health Risks: Leaks and dampness caused by defective roofing and guttering can exacerbate respiratory problems such as asthma. Long-term exposure to mould spores is a serious health hazard.

If your landlord has failed to fix these issues, you have the right to make a housing disrepair claim.

Landlord Responsibilities

According to the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11, your landlord is legally required to maintain the structure and exterior of the property, including roofs, gutters, and drainage systems​. This obligation applies whether you are renting from a council, housing association, or a private landlord. The law ensures that the property remains fit for habitation, and your landlord must carry out necessary repairs within a reasonable timeframe once they have been notified of the issue.

If your landlord has ignored your requests or delayed repairs, you are entitled to take legal action. At SDS Solicitors, we can help you navigate this process.

How to Make a Housing Disrepair Claim

To make a successful claim, you need to show that:

1. You notified your landlord of the disrepair: Evidence that you have reported the roofing or guttering issue to your landlord is essential. Written communication such as emails or letters is preferable.
2. The landlord failed to act within a reasonable time: If your landlord does not address the problem promptly, you may be able to claim compensation.
3. You have suffered losses: This can include damage to your belongings, health problems, or the general loss of enjoyment of your home due to living in unsafe or uncomfortable conditions.

We can assist you in gathering the necessary evidence and building a strong case.