Living with poor housing conditions is not only stressful, but it can also be dangerous. In Wigan, many tenants are facing ongoing issues with damp, mould, broken heating, and unsafe electrics. If your landlord has failed to carry out essential repairs, you may be eligible to bring a housing disrepair claim. These claims help ensure your home is made safe and habitable, and they can also result in financial compensation.
At Marley Solicitors, we help tenants in Wigan take action against negligent landlords. Our housing disrepair team operates on a no win, no fee basis and has a strong track record of securing results for tenants across Greater Manchester.
What is housing disrepair?
Housing disrepair refers to damage, defects, or dangerous conditions in a rented property that the landlord is legally responsible for fixing. Common examples include:
- Persistent damp and black mould
- Leaks from roofs, pipes, or appliances
- Faulty boilers and no heating or hot water
- Unsafe wiring or electrical hazards
- Pest infestations (e.g. rats, cockroaches)
- Broken windows, doors, or locks
- Cracks in walls or ceilings
- Dangerous stairs or flooring
These problems can seriously affect health, particularly for children, the elderly, or anyone with respiratory conditions like asthma. They can also lead to increased utility bills and emotional stress.
Landlords have a legal duty under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 to keep the property in a safe, liveable condition. If they ignore or delay repairs after being informed, this may be grounds for a claim.
Who can make a claim in Wigan?
You can make a housing disrepair claim if:
- You rent from a private landlord, housing association, or Wigan Council
- You have reported the repair issues, and your landlord has failed to act
- The disrepair is causing you harm or affecting your daily life
We assist tenants across Wigan, including in areas such as Platt Bridge, Leigh, Ince, Pemberton, Hindley, and Worsley Mesnes. Older properties and flats in these neighbourhoods are frequently subject to repair issues.
Tenants living in social housing estates or Victorian terraced homes often face ongoing damp and condensation problems, particularly during the winter months.
What can you claim for?
If your claim is successful, you may receive:
- A court order forcing your landlord to carry out the repairs
- Compensation for:
- Health impacts from dampness or cold (e.g. asthma, skin issues, chest infections)
- Damaged possessions (clothes, bedding, electronics)
- Higher heating or energy bills
- Inconvenience and distress
- Loss of amenity (being unable to use parts of your home)
- Time off work to deal with issues or appointments
In many cases, you may also receive a rent rebate (or “abatement”) for the period the disrepair persisted. This is calculated as a percentage of the rent you paid while living in substandard conditions.
The claims process for housing disrepair in Wigan
- Report the issue in writing – Email or letter to your landlord is best. Keep a copy.
- Gather evidence – Photos, videos, receipts for damaged items, and medical records if applicable.
- Wait a reasonable period – Depending on the severity, urgent issues should be fixed within 24–48 hours.
- Get legal help – Marley Solicitors can assess your case and begin proceedings.
- Claim submitted – We liaise with the landlord and may instruct an independent surveyor.
We aim to get urgent repairs completed and secure fair compensation, without the need for you to go to court. However, if your landlord does not cooperate, we are fully prepared to take your case to court.
Common housing issues in Wigan
Wigan’s housing includes a high proportion of older terraced properties and flats built before modern insulation standards. Tenants across the borough frequently report:
- Dampness and mould due to inadequate ventilation
- Delays in fixing broken boilers and hot water systems
- Roof leaks during heavy rain or snow
- Peeling plaster and water-stained ceilings
- Vermin in poorly maintained bin areas or loft spaces
- Faulty electrics causing power outages
- Water penetration through poorly sealed windows or doors
These issues can create an unhealthy and potentially unsafe environment. Tenants often report developing health problems or experiencing emotional strain due to persistent disrepair.
What if my landlord blames me for the damage?
Some landlords try to shift blame onto the tenant, claiming that issues are caused by misuse or poor cleaning. If this happens, it’s important to gather evidence and seek legal advice.
Our team will help establish the cause of the disrepair and defend you against unfair accusations. We work with qualified surveyors and engineers to assess damage and prove liability.
Local support for tenants in Wigan
In addition to legal help, you may be able to seek advice or support from:
- Wigan Council’s Housing Standards Team
- Citizens Advice Wigan Borough
- Shelter Greater Manchester
These organisations can offer initial guidance, though they may have long waiting times. If your situation is urgent or has already escalated, legal support is often the most effective route.
FAQs: Housing disrepair claims in Wigan
Can I still claim if I am behind on rent?
Yes. Being behind on rent does not automatically prevent you from bringing a claim. However, it’s best to speak to a solicitor first.
Will I get evicted if I complain?
It is unlawful for a landlord to evict you because you raised disrepair concerns. This is known as retaliatory eviction and can be challenged.
What if I live with children or someone vulnerable?
If disrepair is affecting vulnerable people (e.g. children, elderly, or disabled), courts take this very seriously and may prioritise urgent action.
How long do I have to claim?
You typically have six years from the date the landlord should have completed the repair. However, acting quickly gives you the best chance of success and minimises ongoing harm.
Why Marley Solicitors?
- We are local to Greater Manchester and understand the issues affecting Wigan housing
- We work on a no win, no fee basis
- We manage all correspondence with your landlord
- We instruct professional surveyors when needed
- We fight to get both repairs and compensation
- We offer home or virtual appointments across the Wigan borough
Tenants shouldn’t have to live in unsafe conditions. We’re here to make sure your home is brought up to legal standards and that you are compensated fairly.
Contact us today
If you’re living in disrepair in Wigan and your landlord isn’t helping, contact Marley Solicitors. We’ll assess your case for free and advise whether you have a strong claim.
Our goal is to protect your rights, restore your home, and ensure you’re fairly compensated.
Call today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
