Housing Disrepair Newcastle: Report It, Get It Fixed & Fight Back

Living with damp, mould, broken heating or unsafe conditions is exhausting. If you’re dealing with housing disrepair in Newcastle, this guide explains what to do, step by step — and how to get support if your landlord refuses to act.

How to Report Housing Disrepair in Newcastle

Step 1: Document the problem

Take clear photos and videos. Write down when the problem started and how it affects your home or health. Keep copies of any messages you send or receive.

Step 2: Ask your landlord to carry out repairs

You should always report disrepair to your landlord or letting agent in writing. This gives them a chance to fix the problem and creates a clear paper trail.

Suggested subject line: Request for repairs – [your address]

I am writing to request repairs at my home at [your address].

The following issues need to be repaired:
[list the repairs needed – for example damp and mould, broken heating, leaks, unsafe electrics]

If these problems are not fixed, they may cause further damage to the property.

I am also concerned that the disrepair could affect my health and the health of my household because
[briefly explain how it affects you].

Please contact me to arrange a suitable time to carry out the repairs.

Kind regards,
[Your name]
  

If the repairs are not done within a reasonable time, you can take the next step and contact the council.

Step 3: Ask Newcastle City Council to inspect your home

If your landlord ignores the problem, you can ask Newcastle City Council to inspect your property through Environmental Health or Private Rented Housing.

Suggested subject line: Request for inspection of private rented property – [your address]

I am a tenant living at [your full address, including postcode] in Newcastle upon Tyne.

My landlord / letting agent is [name].

I contacted them about repairs on [dates].

The issues include:
[describe the problems]

Please arrange an inspection under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).

Kind regards,
[Your name]
  

What Happens After the Council Inspection?

• The council assesses hazards using the HHSRS system
• If serious issues are found, they can legally require repairs
• Your landlord may be given a deadline to comply

In some cases, council action can also restrict your landlord from using a no-fault eviction.

Your Rights as a Tenant in Newcastle

You have the right to live in a safe, warm home. Landlords are responsible for repairs to heating, plumbing, electrics, structure, and conditions that affect health.

Get Support from Food & Solidarity

Taking action alone can feel risky. Food & Solidarity supports tenants in Newcastle to take collective action so landlords are forced to act.

Join Food & Solidarity or fill in the form here to get in touch for support