Housing Disrepair, Damp, and Mould: Your Rights in Leicester
Tenants and landlords in Leicester are covered by the same statutory framework as the rest of England. With national laws dictating responsibilities for repairs and disrepair. This guide explains your rights under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 and Awaab's Law. Which came into effect through the Renters' Rights Act 2025. The law is designed to ensure that rental properties are safe. Healthy, and fit for human habitation, addressing issues like [damp and mould](https://thetenantsvoice.co.uk/category/repairs).
In recent years, housing disrepair has become a significant concern in Leicester, particularly due to the tragic case of Awaab Ishak, which led to the Renters' Rights Act 2025. This legislation aims to improve living conditions by holding landlords accountable for necessary repairs, thereby reducing health risks and improving tenant welfare.
What the Law Says
The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (Section 11) sets out the basic responsibilities of a landlord, including keeping the structure of the property in good repair. The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 extends these obligations to ensure that rented homes are safe, clean, and free from defects that could cause harm or distress.
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 introduces Awaab's Law, specifically targeting disrepair issues like damp and mould. Section 1 of the Act mandates that landlords must rectify any disrepair within a reasonable time frame to ensure the property remains habitable and meets health standards.
How the Renters' Rights Act 2025 Changes This
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 significantly enhances tenants' rights regarding disrepair. Leicester provides clearer guidelines on what constitutes unacceptable living conditions, particularly focusing on damp and mould issues. Awaab's Law requires landlords to address these problems promptly or face legal consequences.
Under the new legislation, landlords must take steps to prevent and resolve damp and mould within a specified timeframe-typically 14 days for urgent repairs and up to six weeks for less critical issues. This ensures that tenants don't suffer from health hazards associated with poor living conditions.
What This Means for Tenants in Leicester
Tenants in Leicester are entitled to a property that's structurally sound, free from damp and mould, and generally fit for human habitation. By statute, landlords must maintain the building's structure, roof, plumbing, gas appliances, electrical installations, and drainage systems.
Awaab's Law under the Renters' Rights Act 2025 sets strict deadlines for addressing disrepair issues. For urgent repairs such as leaking roofs or burst pipes. Landlords may be required to act within two days of notification. Non-urgent repairs, like damp and mould, typically need to be resolved within six weeks.
Your Next Steps if You Need Help in Leicester
If you encounter disrepair issues, the first step is to notify your landlord in writing, providing clear details about the problem. Gather evidence such as photographs and videos documenting the issue. If your landlord doesn't respond or resolve the matter promptly, contact local free advice services like Citizens Advice or Shelter.
Leicester council also has a dedicated housing team that can offer support and intervention if necessary. The environmental health department may serve improvement notices to landlords who neglect repairs, compelling them to take action within a set timeframe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to Document Issues: Always maintain detailed records of disrepair issues. Keep emails, letters, photos, and videos that prove the condition of your home and when you reported it.
- Ignoring Small Problems: Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major repairs later on. Address small leaks or cracks promptly before they escalate.
- Not Seeking Professional Advice: When dealing with complex disrepair cases, seek advice from legal experts. Free services like Citizens Advice are valuable resources.
- Allowing the Issue to Persist: Don't hesitate to report disrepair immediately. The longer you wait, the harder it may be to prove and resolve the problem.
When to Get Professional Advice
If your landlord repeatedly fails to address significant disrepair issues or if you believe your health is at risk due to poor living conditions, consider seeking professional legal advice. A solicitor can help you understand your rights under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and Awaab's Law.
For more straightforward cases, free services like Shelter or Citizens Advice in Leicester may be sufficient. These organisations provide tailored advice based on your specific situation without charge. Ensure to check directly with Leicester council for any local policies that might impact your case.
