What evidence do I need for a housing disrepair claim?

A claim is only as strong as the evidence behind it. Here is exactly what to gather, and why.

Short answer

The most important evidence is proof you reported the problem to your landlord and how long it lasted, backed by dated photos and videos, written messages and repair reference numbers. Add medical records if your health was affected, and keep proof of any damaged belongings or extra costs. Do not worry if you are missing some of it, gather what you can and start now.

UK Housing Claims is a free lead-generation service and a trading name of DVC Group Limited. We are not a law firm. If you are eligible, we connect you with an SRA-regulated solicitor who will tell you exactly what they need for your case.

What to gather, and why

Photos and videos

Clear, dated photos and short videos of every problem, for example damp patches, mould, leaks, broken heating or structural cracks. Take wide shots to show the room and close-ups to show detail. Photograph the same issue over time so it shows how long it has lasted and whether it is getting worse.

A record of dates

Note when you first noticed each problem, when you reported it, and what happened next. A simple diary or timeline is very useful, especially for showing how long the disrepair has continued after the landlord was told.

Repair reference numbers

Every time you report a repair, ask for and write down the reference or job number, plus the date and who you spoke to. These numbers help prove you reported the issue and when.

Emails, letters, texts and app messages

Keep every message to and from your landlord or housing provider about the disrepair, including repair portals or housing apps. Save them, screenshot them and back them up somewhere safe. Written proof that you reported the problem is one of the most important parts of a claim.

Complaint responses

If you have made a formal complaint, keep the acknowledgement and any responses, including any final response or reference to the Housing Ombudsman. These show the landlord was aware and had a chance to put things right.

Medical evidence

If your health, or a family member’s health, has been affected, medical evidence helps support that part of a claim. This can include GP records, prescriptions, hospital letters or a note of appointments linked to the conditions in your home. You do not need to diagnose anything yourself, just keep the records.

Records of damaged possessions

List anything ruined by the disrepair, such as clothing, furniture, carpets or bedding. Photograph the damaged items and keep receipts or proof of value where you can. Also keep evidence of extra costs, such as higher energy bills or replacement purchases.

Witnesses

Anyone who has seen the disrepair or its effect can help, for example family members, neighbours, health visitors or support workers. Note who they are and what they saw. Do not share their details with anyone without their agreement.

What if I do not have everything?

Do not worry if you are missing items. Gather what you can and start now, because building a record from today still helps. A solicitor will tell you what is essential for your specific case.

Your free evidence checklist

Use this to gather everything in one place before you enquire. Tip: keep it all in a single folder on your phone or in a drawer at home so nothing gets lost.

A. The problem

Dated photos of every issue (wide shots and close-ups)
Short videos where useful (leaks, damp spreading, broken heating)
Photos of the same issue over time to show duration
List of every affected room and whether any room is unusable

B. Reporting and dates

Date you first noticed each problem
Date(s) you reported each problem
Repair reference or job numbers
Names of people you spoke to and how (phone, app, in person)
A simple timeline or diary of events

C. Written communication

Emails to and from your landlord or housing provider
Letters (keep the originals)
Texts and housing app or repair portal messages (screenshots)
Complaint acknowledgements and responses
Any final response or Housing Ombudsman reference

D. Impact on health

GP or hospital records linked to conditions in the home
Prescriptions or medication notes
Appointment dates connected to the disrepair
Notes on who in the household was affected

E. Money and belongings

List of belongings damaged or destroyed
Photos of damaged items
Receipts or proof of value where available
Higher energy bills or extra costs (with dates)
Any loss of earnings, with proof

F. Witnesses

Names of anyone who saw the disrepair or its effects
What they saw and when
Their agreement before sharing any contact details

Common questions

What is the most important evidence for a disrepair claim?

Proof that you reported the problem to your landlord and how long it lasted, supported by dated photos and written messages.

Do I need medical evidence?

Only if a health condition was caused or worsened. GP records and similar documents support that part of a claim.

This page is general information, not legal advice. UK Housing Claims is a free lead-generation service and is not a law firm. See also how compensation is calculated and how the claim process works.