Learn your rights and how to get repairs and compensation for leaks and water damage in your home.
Understanding Leaks and Water Damage in Your Home
Leaks and water damage can cause serious problems in your home. They might mean damp walls, peeling paint, or even damage to your belongings. These issues aren’t just uncomfortable; they can affect your health and safety.
If you’ve reported leaks or water damage to your landlord and nothing has been done, you have rights to get the problem fixed and to claim compensation.
What Are Your Landlord’s Responsibilities?
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11, landlords must keep the structure and exterior of your home in good repair. This includes fixing leaks in the roof, gutters, drains, and pipes that cause water damage.
The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 also requires landlords to ensure your home is safe and fit to live in throughout your tenancy. If leaks or water damage make your home unhealthy, your landlord must act.
Additionally, the Defective Premises Act 1972 means landlords must take reasonable care to make sure the property is safe and free from hazards caused by water damage.
Why You Should Act Quickly
Leaks often start small but can lead to:
- Mould and damp that affect your health
- Damage to walls, floors, and ceilings
- Rotting wood or structural problems
- Damage to your belongings
The longer the problem continues, the harder it is to fix and the more compensation you may be able to claim.
How to Report Leaks and Water Damage
Always report the problem in writing, such as by email or letter. Keep a copy for your records. Be clear about the issue and ask for repairs within a reasonable time.
If you want to learn more about reporting repairs the right way, see our guide on how to report repairs so your landlord cannot ignore them.
What to Do if Repairs Are Not Carried Out
If your landlord does not fix the leaks and water damage, you can take steps to enforce repairs. Our specialist housing solicitors can help with no win, no fee claims to get repairs enforced and compensation paid.
You can make a claim under the Pre-Action Protocol for Housing Conditions Claims. This means your landlord must respond before any court case starts.
How Compensation Works
Compensation is usually between 20% and 50% of your rent for the period affected by the leaks or water damage. This can cover:
- Stress and inconvenience
- Damage to your belongings
- Ill health caused by damp or mould
You can claim compensation for up to six years after the problem started, so don’t delay.
If you want to know more about compensation amounts, see our page on how much compensation you can get for housing disrepair.
What Our Service Offers
We provide:
- A free claim check to see if you qualify
- Independent surveyor inspections to assess damage
- Expert housing solicitors who handle your claim
- No upfront costs and no fees if you don’t win
- Support with dealing directly with your landlord
Our service covers all tenants: council, housing association, and private renters across England and Wales.
What to Do Next
If you have leaks or water damage that your landlord won’t fix:
1. Report the problem in writing and keep a copy.
2. Contact us for a free claim check and advice.
3. We can arrange a survey and start your claim on a no win, no fee basis.
Don’t put up with leaks or water damage. Get repairs done and claim the compensation you deserve.
Find out more about your landlord’s obligations and start your housing disrepair claim today.
