What to Do If You’re Having Problems With Your Landlord
Renting a home should offer stability, safety, and the right to enjoy your space in peace. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the reality for every tenant. From landlords who ignore essential repairs to those who try to evict tenants illegally, the range of problems renters face can be serious—and stressful. If you’re experiencing issues with your landlord, knowing your rights and understanding how to take action can make a big difference in how the situation is resolved.
If you're looking for practical tips on how to build and maintain a strong, respectful relationship with your landlord, our detailed guide offers helpful advice on communication, responsibilities, and mutual expectations.
Understanding Your Rights as a Tenant
The first and most important step in dealing with any landlord issue is to understand your rights. In the U.K., tenants are protected under various laws, including the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and the Housing Act 1988. These laws apply differently across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, but the core principles are the same. Your landlord is legally obligated to provide a home that is safe, secure, and in a good state of repair. This includes ensuring that plumbing, heating, gas, and electrical systems are functioning properly and that the structure of the building is sound.
If you're uncertain about who is responsible for handling repairs in your rented home, our comprehensive guide can help clarify the responsibilities of both landlords and tenants. Understanding these duties is essential to ensuring that maintenance issues are addressed promptly and correctly. For all the details and to learn more about your rights, check out our full guide here: Landlord Responsibilities for Repairs – A Guide for Renters.
You also have a right to privacy and to live in your home without harassment. This means your landlord can’t turn up unannounced—they must give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering, and only do so at reasonable times. If you paid a tenancy deposit, it must be protected in a government-approved deposit protection scheme. You should also be given written details about where and how it’s protected.
Identifying the Problem and Gathering Evidence
Once you know your rights, the next step is to pinpoint the exact issue you’re facing. Is it something related to the condition of the property—like a leaking roof or mould that hasn’t been dealt with? Is it a financial dispute, such as an unreturned deposit or an unexpected rent hike? Or is the issue more serious, like harassment or an attempt at an unlawful eviction?
Whatever the situation, it’s important to keep records. Take photos or videos if there is disrepair or damage. Keep copies of your tenancy agreement, rent receipts, and any communication you’ve had with your landlord. If your health has been affected by poor conditions, consider keeping a diary or obtaining a letter from your doctor. The more documentation you have, the easier it will be to prove your case if needed.
Speaking to Your Landlord
Many disputes can be resolved with a calm, direct conversation. If it feels safe to do so, try talking to your landlord first. Explain the issue clearly and respectfully, and give them a chance to respond. Sometimes landlords are unaware of a problem, especially if they don’t live nearby.
If speaking to them doesn’t work or you feel more comfortable putting things in writing, send a letter or email detailing your concerns. State what the issue is, what you’d like them to do, and by when. Refer to your rights if appropriate, but keep the tone factual and courteous. Always keep a copy of any written communication.
Escalating the Issue
If your landlord ignores your request or fails to take action within a reasonable period, it may be time to escalate the matter. Local councils in the U.K. have powers to intervene when landlords fail to maintain their properties. You can report serious repair issues—such as unsafe electrics, mould, lack of heating or hot water—to the environmental health team at your council. An officer may inspect the property and, if necessary, order the landlord to carry out repairs through formal enforcement notices.
In cases where landlords are acting unlawfully—such as trying to evict you without going through the legal process or entering your home without permission—you may need to contact the police or seek legal advice. It’s also wise to reach out to housing support services, many of which offer free advice and assistance.
Getting Support and Advice
There are several trusted organisations that can offer expert help if you’re struggling to deal with your landlord. Shelter is one of the leading housing charities in the U.K. and provides extensive support for tenants, including free legal advice, sample letters, and information on your rights. Citizens Advice is another key resource that offers guidance not just on housing, but on related issues like debt or benefits.
Other groups like Generation Rent, Acorn, and London Renters Union can offer advocacy, community support, and practical help with navigating disputes. If your issue involves your deposit, the government-approved schemes (such as the Deposit Protection Service, MyDeposits, or the Tenancy Deposit Scheme) all offer free dispute resolution services that can help you reclaim what you're owed.
Mediation and Formal Complaints
If communication with your landlord breaks down entirely, mediation may be a helpful option. Mediation involves a neutral third party helping you and your landlord reach a resolution without going to court. This can be particularly effective if both parties want to resolve the issue but need assistance negotiating the details.
In addition, check whether your landlord or letting agent is part of a redress scheme. These schemes, such as The Property Ombudsman or the Property Redress Scheme, allow tenants to file formal complaints if they feel they’ve been treated unfairly. If the complaint is upheld, the scheme may order the landlord or agent to pay compensation or apologise.
Taking Legal Action
Legal action should be a last resort, but it may be necessary if the problem is severe or ongoing and all other efforts have failed. If your landlord has failed to protect your deposit, neglected vital repairs, harassed you, or attempted an illegal eviction, you may be able to take them to court.
You might be entitled to a rent repayment order or compensation for disrepair. In emergency situations, you can apply for an injunction to force your landlord to make repairs or stop harassing you. Legal Aid is available for eligible tenants, especially in cases involving eviction or serious health and safety issues. You can also use the small claims court for deposit disputes or minor financial claims up to £10,000.
Preventing Future Problems
While not all issues can be predicted, taking some proactive steps at the start of your tenancy can help protect you in the long run. Always get a written tenancy agreement and read it carefully. When moving in, take time-stamped photos of the property’s condition and ask for an inventory. Pay your rent by bank transfer or another method that provides proof of payment.
Staying informed and organised can help you feel more confident in addressing any issues that come up. Good landlords appreciate proactive, respectful tenants, and most issues can be resolved amicably with communication and documentation.
Final Thoughts
Having problems with your landlord can be stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether it’s a leaking ceiling, a dispute over money, or something more serious, there are systems and organisations in place to help you. Know your rights, document everything, and seek advice as early as possible. By being prepared and persistent, you can protect yourself and your home.
If you’re currently dealing with a difficult situation, start by contacting Shelter (0808 800 4444) or Citizens Advice for personalised help. Your home should be a place of comfort and security—and you deserve to live in it without fear or neglect.