Housing disrepair claims and rent arrears
Written and reviewed by the RemedyBridge team · Last reviewed June 2026
Quick answer
Having rent arrears does not automatically prevent a housing disrepair enquiry. Disrepair and rent are separate issues, although they can interact in a case. We flag arrears for careful human review rather than rejecting an enquiry, and we can talk you through your options on your specific situation.
Key points
- Arrears do not automatically rule you out.
- Disrepair and rent are separate issues.
- We flag arrears for human review.
- We can talk you through your options on your circumstances.
Why it is reviewed carefully
Arrears and possession proceedings can be relevant to how a case is handled, so they are flagged for a person to consider — never used to auto-reject an enquiry.
You may not need us — free routes first
You can often resolve repairs for free. Depending on your situation you may be able to:
- report repairs to your landlord in writing and keep a dated copy;
- use your landlord’s formal complaints process;
- take dated photos and keep a record of what you reported and when;
- give your landlord a reasonable chance to put things right.
Sources
RemedyBridge provides a free initial check for housing disrepair problems in England & Wales. The result is a guide only and never tells you that you definitely have a claim. Checking your situation is free.
Not sure where you stand?
Take the free, anonymous check — no personal details needed to start.
Check your situation