A secure home is a fundamental right for every tenant. Broken windows and doors don't just make a property look neglected — they can pose significant safety, health, and security risks. Unfortunately, many landlords delay or ignore requests to fix such essential features, leaving tenants vulnerable and distressed.
In this article, we explore the dangers of damaged windows and doors, what the law says about your rights, and how the Housing disrepair experts can help you claim compensation and force repairs if your landlord fails to act.
Why Are Windows and Doors So Important?
Windows and doors do more than provide entry and ventilation. They play a crucial role in:
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Home security – Broken locks or panels can make it easy for intruders to access your property.
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Weather protection – Gaps, cracks, or shattered glass can allow cold air, rain, or wind to enter the property.
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Energy efficiency – Damaged windows and doors can increase heating costs due to drafts and heat loss.
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Health and safety – Faulty fittings can result in injuries or increase the risk of damp, mould, or pest infestation.
Landlords have a legal responsibility to ensure windows and doors are kept in good condition and provide a safe living environment.
What the Law Says: Your Rights as a Tenant
According to the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, it is the landlord’s legal duty to:
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Keep the structure and exterior of the property in good repair.
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Ensure that the property is fit for human habitation at the start of and throughout the tenancy.
This includes the maintenance and repair of windows, doors, frames, hinges, handles, locks, and sealing. Additionally, under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, tenants can take action if a home is unsafe due to disrepair.
If your landlord fails to act after being notified of a broken window or door, they are breaching their legal responsibilities.
Common Window and Door Issues Covered by Disrepair Claims
You may have grounds for a housing disrepair claim if you experience any of the following:
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Broken or shattered glass
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Rotten or decaying window frames
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Loose or broken hinges or handles
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Doors that don’t close, lock, or seal properly
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Damaged or missing locks, posing a security risk
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Excessive drafts or water leaks due to poor window/door condition
In serious cases, such issues can result in injury, burglary, or long-term discomfort.
Steps to Take if Your Windows or Doors Are Broken
1. Inform Your Landlord in Writing
Report the issue to your landlord or letting agent as soon as you notice it. Use email or a letter to create a written record. Clearly explain the problem and request immediate repairs.
2. Take Photographic Evidence
Document the damage with clear photographs or videos. Include details like dates, severity of the issue, and any injuries or health problems caused.
3. Log Any Incidents
Keep a diary of how the disrepair affects your life — such as cold temperatures, noise intrusion, health issues, or security breaches.
4. Seek Medical or Police Reports
If you suffer an injury, illness, or security issue due to the damaged window or door, seek professional evidence to support your case.
5. Contact Housing Disrepair Team UK
If your landlord doesn’t respond or keeps delaying repairs, contact the housing disrepair team uk. Our experts will assess your claim and take legal action on your behalf.
Can You Claim Compensation?
Yes. If broken windows or doors cause harm, discomfort, or financial loss, you could be eligible for compensation. This includes:
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General damages for emotional distress and inconvenience
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Special damages such as medical costs, property damage, or increased heating bills
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Repairs enforced by court if your landlord refuses to act
Our legal experts can also help you secure a rent rebate if you’ve been paying full rent while living in unsafe conditions.
Why Work with Housing Disrepair Team UK?
At the housing disrepair team uk, we specialise in helping tenants take action against negligent landlords. Here’s how we can support you:
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No win, no fee representation – You don’t pay anything unless we win your case.
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Fast response – We move quickly to protect your rights and comfort.
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Legal expertise – Our experienced solicitors know housing law inside out.
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Full support – From collecting evidence to submitting court documents, we handle the entire process.
You don’t need to struggle alone — our team is here to fight for your right to a safe and secure home.
Landlord Excuses You Shouldn’t Accept
Some landlords try to dodge responsibility by saying:
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“It’s cosmetic damage only.”
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“You caused it, so you must pay for it.”
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“We’ll fix it eventually — just wait.”
None of these excuses hold weight if the damage affects your health, safety, or comfort. You have legal rights, and your landlord is obligated to act.
Conclusion: Don’t Let Disrepair Go Unchallenged
Broken windows and doors are more than just an inconvenience. They can make your home unsafe, uncomfortable, and expensive to live in. UK tenancy law is clear: your landlord must maintain the property to a livable standard.
If you’ve reported the issue and received no response, reach out to the Housing Disrepair Team UK. We’ll help you hold your landlord accountable, get repairs done, and claim the compensation you deserve.