Making a housing disrepair claim is one of the most effective ways tenants can hold landlords accountable. But the success of your case depends heavily on the strength of your evidence. Without clear proof, landlords often deny responsibility or minimise the severity of the problem.
At Housing Disrepair Claims, our team of housing disrepair experts and specialist housing disrepair solicitors know exactly what kind of evidence courts and landlords will take seriously. This guide explains the essential steps you should take to document your housing issues and strengthen your housing disrepair compensation claim.
Why Evidence Matters in Housing Disrepair Cases
Evidence is the backbone of any legal case. When you make a housing disrepair claim, your solicitor will need to show that:
- You reported the problem to your landlord.
- The landlord failed to carry out repairs in a reasonable time.
- The disrepair has caused inconvenience, damage, or harm.
Good evidence proves all three points and ensures you receive the compensation you deserve.
Step 1: Report the Problem in Writing
The first step in gathering evidence is notifying your landlord properly. Courts want to see that the landlord had an opportunity to fix the problem but failed to do so.
- Always report issues in writing (email or letter) rather than just making a phone call.
- Keep copies of every email, letter, or text you send.
- Record the date and details of every communication.
This paper trail becomes powerful evidence in your compensation claim for housing disrepair.
Step 2: Take Photographs and Videos
Visual evidence is one of the strongest forms of proof. When taking photos or videos:
- Capture the problem clearly (damp patches, mould growth, leaks, broken fittings, etc.).
- Take wide shots and close-ups to show the extent of the damage.
- Date-stamp your photos (most smartphones do this automatically).
- Take new photos regularly to show if the problem worsens.
This evidence helps prove both the existence and progression of the disrepair.
Step 3: Keep a Tenant Diary
A tenant diary is a simple but powerful tool. Write down:
- When you first noticed the problem.
- How it affects your daily life (e.g., sleeping in a cold room, health problems, stress).
- Any disruption (missed work, children unable to sleep, higher bills).
- Every interaction with your landlord about the issue.
This diary shows the loss of enjoyment of your home, which is a key factor in calculating housing disrepair compensation.
Step 4: Collect Medical Evidence (if relevant)
If disrepair has affected your health, medical evidence can significantly increase your claim. Examples include:
- GP or hospital records (e.g., treatment for asthma caused by damp).
- Prescriptions for medication related to the issue.
- Letters from doctors confirming that disrepair contributed to your condition.
Our housing disrepair solicitors can also arrange medical assessments to support your case.
Step 5: Keep Receipts for Financial Losses
You may be entitled to compensation for money you’ve lost because of the disrepair. Always keep receipts for:
- Replacing damaged belongings (clothes, furniture, electronics).
- Increased heating bills due to broken insulation or windows.
- Cleaning products or pest control services.
- Temporary accommodation if the property became uninhabitable.
These documents help strengthen your housing disrepair compensation claim by proving financial losses.
Step 6: Speak to Neighbours and Witnesses
Independent witnesses can also be valuable. Neighbours, visitors, or even contractors who have seen the disrepair can provide written statements.
If other tenants in the same building are experiencing similar problems, their evidence may further support your case.
Step 7: Professional Expert Reports
Sometimes, landlords try to blame tenants for problems such as mould or damp, claiming it’s due to “lifestyle issues.” To counter this, solicitors often arrange for a professional surveyor or housing disrepair expert to inspect your property.
An expert report can:
- Prove the landlord’s responsibility.
- Show the extent of the damage.
- Provide independent evidence for court proceedings.
At Housing Disrepair Claims, we work with qualified experts who provide the reports needed to win cases.
How Evidence Strengthens Your Claim
When combined, these pieces of evidence:
- Prove the disrepair exists (photos, videos, reports).
- Show the landlord failed in their duty (letters, emails, complaint records).
- Demonstrate the impact on your life (tenant diary, medical records).
- Support your claim for financial compensation (receipts, bills).
This makes it much harder for landlords to deny responsibility and helps you achieve the maximum compensation possible.
How Much Compensation Can Strong Evidence Secure?
The amount of compensation you receive often depends on the quality of your evidence. For example:
- Weak evidence: May result in a low settlement or rejected claim.
- Strong evidence: Can secure thousands of pounds in damages.
At Housing Disrepair Claims, we’ve seen tenants secure anywhere from £2,000 to £15,000+ depending on the severity of the case and the supporting evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gathering Evidence
Q: What if I didn’t keep records of early complaints?
Don’t worry — we can still help. Ongoing evidence is still valuable, and we may obtain records directly from your landlord.
Q: Do I need professional photography?
No. Clear photos and videos from your phone are usually enough.
Q: Can I still claim if repairs were eventually carried out?
Yes. If you lived in poor conditions for months or years, you may still be entitled to compensation.
Q: What if my landlord denies receiving my complaint?
This is why written communication is vital. Our solicitors can also access landlord records if needed.
Why Choose Housing Disrepair Claims?
We specialise in helping tenants build the strongest possible cases. Our services include:
- Free advice on gathering evidence.
- No win, no fee support — you only pay if we win your case.
- Expert surveyor reports to strengthen claims.
- Skilled housing disrepair solicitors who fight for maximum payouts.
We’re proud to be recognised among the best housing disrepair solicitors in the UK, trusted by thousands of tenants.
Final Thoughts
Gathering evidence is the most important step in making a successful housing disrepair compensation claim. From photographs and written records to medical evidence and professional reports, every piece of proof strengthens your case.
At Housing Disrepair Claims, our team will guide you through every stage of the process — from collecting evidence to negotiating with landlords and fighting in court if necessary.
📞 Contact Housing Disrepair Claims today for a free consultation and let our housing disrepair experts help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.