My Flat Has Had Damp and Mould for Years — What Can I Claim?

Thank you for describing your situation. It sounds like you have been living with serious disrepair in your flat for many years, and your landlord has not addressed it despite your complaints. Could you tell me — is your landlord a housing association or a local council? And have you put any of your complaints in writing (emails, letters, or through a repairs portal)?

Here is the legal position based on what you have described: You have two main legal routes: **1. Disrepair under Section 11, Landlord and Tenant Act 1985** Your landlord has an implied obligation to keep the structure, exterior, and installations (heating, plumbing, electrics) in repair. The problems you describe — cracks, damp, faulty windows, boiler issues — fall squarely within this duty. Once the landlord has notice of the disrepair (which your emails and letters demonstrate), they must carry out repairs within a reasonable time. **2. Fitness for human habitation under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018** Since 20 March 2019, landlords must ensure a dwelling is fit for human habitation throughout the tenancy. Persistent damp, mould, and structural defects can render a property unfit. **What you may be entitled to:** - **General damages** — compensation for the diminution in value of the property during the period of disrepair, typically calculated as a percentage of rent. Where a property is found unfit for human habitation, damages can be equivalent to 100% of the rent for that period - **Special damages** — compensation for damaged belongings, additional heating costs, or medical expenses - **An order for specific performance** — the court can order the landlord to complete all repairs within a set timeframe Your written records of complaints are very important evidence. One option is to instruct a housing disrepair solicitor — many operate on a "no win, no fee" basis for these claims. For free advice, contact Shelter on 0808 800 4444. *This is legal information, not legal advice. For advice specific to your circumstances, consult a qualified solicitor.*