Compensation Claims Against the Council

At Watson Woodhouse, we understand how distressing it can be when the local council fails in its duty to provide safe housing, maintain public spaces or fails in other duties. Whether you are suffering due to poor housing conditions or have been injured as a result of council negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.

We assist clients across England and Wales in holding councils accountable for their responsibilities. Our specialist Housing Law and Personal Injury solicitors are here to help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.

Free Initial Discussion

For a no-obligation discussion, call our specialist solicitors on 01642 247656, or use our contact form, and we will call you back.

Understanding Council Liability

Local councils have a legal duty to ensure that public spaces, council-owned properties, and roads are safe and well-maintained. When they fail in this duty, individuals may suffer injuries, property damage, or endure unsafe living conditions.

Negligence can include failing to repair council houses, ignoring reports of hazards in public areas, or allowing roads and pavements to fall into disrepair. If you have suffered due to such negligence, you may have grounds for a claim.

Common Types of Compensation Claims Against the Council

Housing Disrepair Claims

As a council tenant, you have the right to live in a safe and well-maintained home. If your council has failed to address serious issues, you may be able to claim compensation for:

• Damp and Mould – Long-term exposure to damp and mould can cause serious health issues.
• Structural Defects – Unsafe walls, roofs, or foundations put you and your family at risk.
• Faulty Plumbing or Heating – Leaks, broken boilers, or inadequate heating can make your home uninhabitable.
• Electrical Hazards – Unsafe wiring or faulty electrics pose a fire and electrocution risk.
• Pest Infestations – Failure to address infestations can lead to unliveable conditions.

If your council has failed to take action despite repeated reports, you may be entitled to compensation and a legal order requiring repairs to be carried out.

Personal Injury Claims

Councils are also responsible for maintaining public spaces, roads, and pavements to a safe standard. Negligence can result in serious injuries, such as:

• Trips and Falls on Pavements – Potholes, uneven surfaces, and broken pavements can cause serious injuries.
• Accidents in Public Spaces – Poorly maintained parks, playgrounds, or public buildings can pose hazards.
• Injuries in Council-Owned Properties – Unsafe conditions in council buildings can lead to accidents.

How to Make a Claim Against the Council

If you have suffered due to council negligence, our expert solicitors can guide you through the claims process. Providing supporting evidence can strengthen your case, including:

• Photographs of the issue (housing disrepair, pavement defects, etc.).
• Medical records if you’ve suffered an injury.
• Records of previous complaints made to the council.
• Witness statements from others affected by the issue.

Time Limits for Council Compensation Claims

There are strict time limits for making a claim against the council:

• Housing Disrepair Claims – You typically have up to six years to claim for property damage and up to three years if your claim involves personal injury.
• Personal Injury Claims – You generally have three years from the date of injury or from when you became aware that negligence was the cause.

Acting quickly can improve the chances of a successful claim by ensuring vital evidence is preserved.

No Win, No Fee Representation – Personal Injury

At Watson Woodhouse, we believe everyone should have access to justice. That’s why we offer No Win, No Fee representation for personal injury claims. If your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t have to pay any legal fees.

Fees for Housing Disrepair?

If your case is successful, all legal fees are payable by the landlord or housing association. Should your case not be successful no claim for fees from you shall be made.

This makes this course of action one of the most accessible, tenant-friendly and risk-free actions available.

A full explanation in relation to the terms of our conditional fee agreements will be provided to you prior to the commencement of any action taken on your behalf.

How Can Watson Woodhouse Help?

We are here to help.

Call us for a FREE and confidential consultation with a specialist solicitor on 01642 247656.

Alternatively, complete our online contact form and one of our solicitors will be in touch.

Watson Woodhouse Solicitors provides support to clients throughout England and Wales.