If you are renting in Radcliffe-on-Trent and your landlord has failed to maintain safe and healthy living conditions, you may be able to make a landlord negligence claim. Living in a poorly maintained property is not just inconvenient; it can also be dangerous and unlawful.
At Marley Solicitors, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that landlord negligence can have. If your landlord has failed to act when needed, we can help you hold them accountable and seek the compensation you deserve.
What is landlord negligence?
Landlord negligence occurs when a landlord fails to meet their legal responsibilities, leading to harm or financial loss for the tenant. This typically involves failure to carry out necessary repairs or to maintain the property to an acceptable standard of safety and hygiene.
Negligence can occur in all types of rental housing, from private flats to council-owned homes. Regardless of whether your landlord is an individual or a housing association, the law still applies.
Common examples of negligence include:
- Ignoring repeated requests for urgent repairs
- Failing to fix leaking roofs or plumbing
- Allowing damp and mould to persist unchecked
- Not addressing pest infestations
- Failing to ensure gas and electrical systems are safe
- Not securing the property, leading to break-ins or damage
Legal responsibilities of landlords in Radcliffe-on-Trent
In Radcliffe-on-Trent, landlords are subject to national housing legislation, including:
- Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 – Requires landlords to keep the structure and exterior of the property in repair
- Housing Act 2004 – Introduces the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) to assess hazards
- Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 – Ensures rented homes meet basic living standards
Local authorities, including Rushcliffe Borough Council, are also responsible for enforcing housing standards. Tenants can report landlords to the council, but legal advice should be sought if the issue is severe or persistent.
Landlords must ensure:
- The property is free from serious hazards
- Gas and electrical systems are checked regularly
- Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and working
- Tenants have access to heating, hot water, and sanitation
Common issues leading to claims in Radcliffe-on-Trent
The types of problems we frequently see in Radcliffe-on-Trent rental properties include:
- Mould and damp – A widespread problem that can cause breathing difficulties, particularly for children or people with asthma
- Unsafe electrics – Loose wiring, broken sockets, and outdated fuse boxes can cause electric shocks or fires
- Faulty heating systems – In the winter months, a lack of heating can lead to serious health concerns, particularly for the elderly
- Roof and gutter damage – Water leaks and structural instability can pose risks and cause extensive property damage
- Insect or rodent infestations – These can be both distressing and harmful to health, especially if left unresolved
Tenants have a right to live in a property that is safe, secure, and fit for human habitation. If your home falls short of these standards, your landlord may be legally at fault.
How to know if you have a valid landlord negligence claim
To bring a claim against your landlord for negligence, you need to prove that:
- They owed you a duty of care
- They breached that duty through inaction or poor maintenance
- You suffered loss, injury, or damage as a result
Examples of evidence that can support your claim include:
- Written repair requests or complaint emails
- Photographs or videos of the problem areas
- Medical records showing illness linked to housing conditions
- Witness statements from neighbours or contractors
- Reports from environmental health officers or surveyors
It is important to act promptly. Claims are often subject to time limits, particularly if they involve personal injury.
Steps to take if your landlord has been negligent
If you believe your landlord has neglected their duties, take the following actions:
- Document the issue – Take clear, dated photos of the problem
- Report it – Send a written request to your landlord outlining the issue
- Allow a reasonable timeframe – In most cases, landlords should respond within 14–28 days, depending on the severity of the problem
- Contact environmental health – If your landlord does not act, report the issue to your local council
- Seek legal advice – Speak to our team at Marley Solicitors to understand your rights and the best course of action
We can help you navigate the process of making a claim and advise you on the strength of your case.
Compensation you may be entitled to
If your claim is successful, you may be awarded compensation for:
- Personal injury – This includes physical illness or injury caused by the property’s condition
- Property damage – Compensation for clothes, furniture, or belongings damaged by damp, leaks, or infestations
- Financial losses – Costs for temporary accommodation, higher heating bills, or replacement of damaged goods
- Distress and inconvenience – The emotional impact of living in unsafe or unsuitable housing
The amount of compensation will vary depending on the severity of the issue and how long it was left unresolved.
Local insight: Housing conditions in Radcliffe-on-Trent
While Radcliffe-on-Trent is generally a sought-after village with a strong community feel, housing issues do still arise. Tenants in both private and council-owned properties have reported concerns around heating faults, mould growth, and overdue repairs.
With an increasing number of properties rented out privately, tenants may find it harder to enforce their rights without legal support. That is where Marley Solicitors can help. We have experience handling claims in Radcliffe-on-Trent and can offer insight into local council procedures, landlord trends, and tenant rights.
Case study: How we helped a tenant in Radcliffe-on-Trent
One of our recent clients in Radcliffe-on-Trent rented a flat plagued with damp and persistent leaks. Despite reporting the issue several times to the letting agency, the landlord failed to carry out repairs.
Over the winter, the tenant developed breathing problems and incurred costs replacing water-damaged belongings. After contacting Marley Solicitors, we gathered medical evidence, repair requests, and expert reports to build a strong case.
We successfully negotiated a settlement covering:
- Personal injury compensation
- Reimbursement for damaged furniture
- General damages for stress and inconvenience
This case is just one example of how legal action can make a real difference.
Frequently asked questions about landlord negligence
Can I claim if I am still living in the property?
Yes. You can make a claim while still living in the property. In fact, the sooner you act, the better your chances of securing a repair and compensation.
What if my landlord refuses to respond?
If your landlord ignores your request, you can report them to the council and seek legal advice. A solicitor can send a formal letter before action, which often prompts a response.
Is legal aid available?
Legal aid may be available for urgent housing issues involving serious disrepair or risk to health. We can help assess your eligibility and guide you through your options.
Can I be evicted for making a claim?
Landlords are not legally allowed to evict tenants in retaliation for complaints or claims. This is known as a retaliatory eviction and is unlawful. If you are worried about this, speak to us confidentially.
Why choose Marley Solicitors in Radcliffe-on-Trent?
At Marley Solicitors, we specialise in landlord negligence and housing disrepair claims. We have a strong presence in the East Midlands and a deep understanding of Radcliffe-on-Trent’s housing market.
Our team offers:
- Personalised advice based on your circumstances
- Transparent fee structures with no hidden costs
- Representation in negotiations, complaints, and court proceedings
- A compassionate, professional approach from start to finish
We are committed to ensuring tenants live in safe, secure, and habitable homes.
Contact Marley Solicitors for landlord negligence advice
If you are living in unsafe or poorly maintained accommodation in Radcliffe-on-Trent, do not suffer in silence. Marley Solicitors is here to help you take action.
Our team can assess your case during a free initial consultation and explain your options clearly. We are ready to support you every step of the way and will work hard to secure the outcome you deserve.
Call us today or visit our website to book an appointment. Your safety and wellbeing matter, and we are here to protect your rights.
