My Home Has Leaks, Problems With the Roof or Windows, or Other Serious Disrepair
A leaking roof is rarely just a roof problem once water enters the home.
A leaking roof is rarely just a roof problem once water enters the home.
It can become stained ceilings, damaged plaster, mould, ruined furniture, unsafe electrics, a bedroom that smells damp and the anxiety of checking the forecast because heavy rain means another night moving buckets.
Serious disrepair often creates a chain of consequences. Document the chain, not only the original defect.
Structure and exterior are core repair responsibilities
Landlords in England are generally responsible for the structure and exterior of rented property.
That can include roofs, external walls and windows where repair is required.
Report the location and severity of the defect and what happens because of it: water penetration, draughts, inability to secure a window, internal damage or loss of use.
Water damage can keep spreading after the rain stops
A temporary patch may stop visible water without drying the structure or fixing the cause.
Record staining, crumbling plaster, mould, swollen flooring or damaged decoration after the event.
If water has reached electrical fittings, report that specifically as a potential safety concern rather than treating it as ordinary cosmetic damage.
A defective window can affect more than comfort
Windows can create security, weatherproofing, ventilation and heat-loss issues.
A window that will not close may expose a home to cold, rain or security concerns. A window that cannot be opened may affect ventilation.
Explain the practical consequence rather than simply reporting “window broken”.
Your belongings and normal use of the home matter
Move possessions away from active leaks where possible and photograph damaged items before disposal.
Keep receipts or other evidence of value where available.
Also record rooms that become unusable or furniture that has to be moved. The effect of poor housing conditions on the tenant and family is expressly relevant under the Housing Conditions Pre-Action Protocol.
Do not confuse an inspection with a solution
An inspection can identify what work is needed, but the problem remains until appropriate work is carried out.
Keep dates of surveys, contractor visits and proposed works.
If the landlord repeatedly inspects without completing the necessary repair, that history may become important if you later seek independent advice.
When serious disrepair remains unresolved
Use the formal complaint route and consider housing-enforcement advice where appropriate.
If the landlord has known about poor conditions and matters remain unresolved, the Housing Conditions Pre-Action Protocol provides a framework for potential civil claims in England.
Depending on the facts, the legal issue can include remedial works, compensation for the effect of the conditions, financial losses and sometimes a related personal-injury element.
Last reviewed
6 September 2026
Important informationThis guide provides general information only and does not constitute legal, medical or other professional advice. Housing rights and legal remedies depend on the type of tenancy, landlord, location, the condition of the property and individual circumstances. Check current official guidance and consider advice from an appropriately qualified housing adviser, healthcare professional or legal professional where needed.