Legal updates
Law changes. This page keeps the guidance honest: the rules and court decisions we lean on, with an official source you can read yourself — and any newer notes we've published.
Law · England & Wales
Rented homes must be fit to live in at the start of, and throughout, the tenancy. Tenants can take a landlord to court directly where a home is not fit.
For your letter: When you write about damp, cold, mould or safety, describe the condition, the dates you reported it and the effect on the household.
Read the source at legislation.gov.ukLaw · England & Wales
Strengthens the standards social landlords are held to and the consumer regulation regime, including duties around hazards such as damp and mould.
For your letter: Social tenants can ask for a written inspection date and a written repair plan, then escalate to the Housing Ombudsman if there is no reply.
Read the source at legislation.gov.ukCourt decision · England & Wales
The Supreme Court held that a rent repayment order can only be made against the immediate landlord, not a superior landlord.
For your letter: Address letters about rent repayment to the landlord named on your tenancy agreement.
Read the source at UK Supreme CourtLaw · England & Wales
Goods must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described; services must be carried out with reasonable care and skill.
For your letter: In a complaint letter, say what you bought, when, what went wrong, and the remedy you are asking for.
Read the source at legislation.gov.ukThis page is information, not legal advice, and it can never be fully up to date for every area. Always check the official source and, for anything with a deadline, see when to seek real legal help.
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