Question 1

What is a housing disrepair claim?

Accepted Answer

A housing disrepair claim is a claim made against your landlord — this could be against the Council, Housing Association or a Private Landlord — for their failure to keep the property in a safe and habitable condition.

If your property is in disrepair and your landlord has failed to complete the repairs within a reasonable period, you are able to commence a Housing Disrepair Claim. As a tenant you have the right to pursue a claim for works to be carried out to the property and compensation.

Question 2

Can I claim compensation for housing disrepair?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can claim compensation for housing disrepair, however this will differ on a case by case basis. The amount of compensation you will receive will depend on the disrepair to the property and the duration of the disrepair since it was first reported. Compensation can also be claimed for any personal injury suffered as a result of the repair, along with any losses incurred such as damage to personal belongings.

Question 3

How long is the claims process?

Accepted Answer

This will vary on a case by case basis and is dependent on how long it takes to receive a response from the landlord and for them to carry out the repairs. However, generally cases will take approximately 6–12 months on average to conclude.

Question 4

Can I be evicted by my landlord for making a claim?

Accepted Answer

No — if your landlord is a Council or Housing Association they cannot evict you as a result of you pursuing a claim for Housing Disrepair. However, if you are in rent arrears or have breached a term of your tenancy they may issue a counter claim against you.

In respect of Private Landlords, your landlord may be able to issue you an eviction notice known as a Section 21 notice. However, the landlord will need to ensure that strict criteria and rules are met for them to be able to successfully evict you.

Question 5

Can I still claim if I no longer live in the property?

Accepted Answer

No — unfortunately you are not eligible to claim if you have already moved out. In order to be able to make a claim, you must still be living in the property.

Question 6

How much will it cost me?

Accepted Answer

Our panel of solicitors will act for you on a no win, no fee basis. If your claim is successful, the solicitors will charge you a success fee not exceeding 35%.

In certain circumstances — such as if you cancel outside of the cooling-off period or fail to cooperate with the solicitors — the solicitors may charge you for the work they have carried out.

Should your claim be accepted by one of our panel solicitors, they will provide you with their terms and conditions, which will explain full details of the no win, no fee agreement and any potential cost consequences to you.

Question 7

Who can make a housing disrepair claim?

Accepted Answer

You can make a claim if you are a tenant of a council property, housing association, or registered social landlord in England or Wales, and your landlord has failed to carry out repairs within a reasonable time after being notified of the problem.

Question 8

What if I reported the problem but my landlord said it was my fault?

Accepted Answer

Your landlord's response does not determine whether you have a valid claim. We will independently assess the situation and advise you on the strength of your case.

Question 9

Can I claim if I am in rent arrears?

Accepted Answer

Rent arrears do not automatically prevent you from making a housing disrepair claim. Your right to a habitable home exists independently of your rent account. We can advise you on how arrears may affect your specific situation.

Question 10

Can private tenants make a claim?

Accepted Answer

Our services are currently focused on tenants of social housing — councils and housing associations. If you are a private tenant, please contact us and we will advise whether we can assist.

Question 11

What types of disrepair can I claim for?

Accepted Answer

You can claim for a wide range of issues including damp and mould, leaking roofs or pipes, broken heating or hot water, structural damage, pest infestations, faulty electrics, and unsafe flooring or windows. If your landlord has failed to fix a problem that affects your health or safety, it is worth getting in touch.

Question 12

What can I claim compensation for?

Accepted Answer

You may be entitled to compensation for: the inconvenience and distress caused by living in a disrepaired property; damage to your belongings; any health problems caused or worsened by the disrepair; and a reduction in rent for the period during which the property was in disrepair.

Question 13

How much compensation could I receive?

Accepted Answer

Every case is different. The amount depends on the severity and duration of the disrepair, the impact on your health and daily life, and any financial losses you have suffered. We will give you an honest assessment once we have reviewed your case.

Question 14

What is the time limit for making a claim?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, you have 6 years from when the disrepair occurred, or 3 years from when you became aware of it, to make a claim. It is important to act promptly — contact us as soon as possible to protect your position.

Question 15

Will I have to go to court?

Accepted Answer

The majority of claims are settled without going to court. However, if your landlord refuses to engage or disputes your claim, court proceedings may be necessary. We will guide you through every step if that happens.

Question 16

Is it really no win, no fee?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You pay nothing upfront and nothing at all if your claim is unsuccessful. If your claim is successful, the solicitors will charge a success fee not exceeding 35% of your compensation. The exact terms will be clearly set out in your client agreement before you commit.

Question 17

Are there any hidden costs?

Accepted Answer

No. We are transparent about fees from the outset. Any costs that may arise will be explained to you fully before you proceed. We comply with all FCA rules on charges for claims management services.

Question 18

What happens if I cancel?

Accepted Answer

You have a 14-day cooling-off period from the date you sign your client agreement, during which you can cancel without any charge. If you cancel outside of this period or fail to cooperate with the solicitors, you may be charged for work already carried out. Full details will be set out in your agreement.

Question 19

What happens after I submit my details?

Accepted Answer

A member of our team will contact you within 24 hours to discuss your situation. We will carry out a free, no-obligation assessment and let you know whether we believe you have a valid claim.

Question 20

What evidence do I need?

Accepted Answer

It helps to have photos or videos of the disrepair, records of when you reported it to your landlord (letters, emails, texts), any medical evidence if your health has been affected, and details of any belongings that were damaged. Do not worry if you do not have all of this — we can help you gather evidence.

Question 21

Will my landlord find out I have made a claim?

Accepted Answer

Yes — your landlord will be formally notified as part of the claims process. This is a legal requirement. However, your landlord cannot evict you or treat you unfairly as a result of making a legitimate disrepair claim.

Question 22

Do I need to instruct a solicitor separately?

Accepted Answer

No. Where legal services are required, we will refer your matter to one of our panel solicitors on your behalf. You do not need to find or pay for a solicitor separately.

Question 23

Who are Calibre Claims?

Accepted Answer

Calibre Claims is a trading style of Calibre Claims Services Limited, a specialist claims management company focused on housing disrepair. We are registered in England and Wales (company number 07441245) and authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Reg No. 836263).

Question 24

Are you regulated?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which sets strict standards for how claims management companies must treat their clients. Our FCA registration number is 836263.

Question 25

Which areas do you cover?

Accepted Answer

We handle claims for tenants across England and Wales.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Questions

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