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Getting a rent reduction for repair problems

If repairs are taking a long time, or they cause serious disruption, you can ask your landlord for a rent reduction. This is sometimes called a rent abatement.

Only ask for a rent reduction after you’ve spoken to your landlord to find out what’s happening with the repairs.

If your landlord refuses to reduce the rent you can make a complaint, take legal action and in some cases get compensation.

Step 1: work out how much of a reduction to ask for

You will need to ask your landlord for a specific amount off your rent until an agreed time. Consider what's reasonable and realistic based on all the circumstances.

For example, consider:

  • if you cannot use a room for its intended purpose, such as a bedroom for sleeping

  • how long the repairs are taking 

  • any damage to your belongings

  • if your or a family member’s health has been impacted

  • extra costs, for example if you've had to use an electric heater

You could ask for a reduction based on how much of your home you cannot use. For example, if you have 4 rooms and you cannot use 1 of them, you could ask for a 25% reduction in rent.

Decide how long the rent reduction should last

Ask your landlord how long they expect repairs to take. If they do not give you an estimate, you could ask for the reduction to continue until either:

  • the repairs are finished

  • the area of the property can be used safely while minor repairs continue

Step 2: write to your landlord

Tell your landlord in writing:

  • what repairs need to be done

  • how the problem is affecting you

  • why you want your rent reduced

  • how much you want it reduced and for how long

Include evidence of the problem if you can. For example, this could be:

  • photos or videos of the repair problem

  • photos or videos of damaged belongings

  • a letter from your doctor about how your or a family member’s health has been affected

Use our letter template to help you. Copy and paste the sample text and personalise it with your details.

Letter template: ask for a rent reduction due to repairs

Subject: Rent reduction request due to repairs at <your address>

To <your landlord's name/council or housing association>

I’m writing to ask for a temporary rent reduction at <your address> due to the conditions in the property.

<Describe the repair problems in your home>

I first reported these repairs on <date>.

My life has been affected by these problems. <Give details, for example: I can’t use part of my home / the repairs are affecting my health / I’ve had to take a lot of time off work>.

I propose that I pay <£xxx> until <the repairs are done/I can use the affected area of my home again>. I think this is reasonable because of the effect it’s having on me and the amount of time the repairs are taking.

Please reply in writing to let me know if you agree to this reduction.

Thank you

<your name>
<your phone number>
<date>


You can also send the letter as an email attachment or through the post:

Step 3: negotiate with your landlord

If your landlord refuses to reduce your rent by the amount you request, try to negotiate with them. 

Ask them what they would be willing to lower it to, and see if you agree. Get any agreement in writing so there are no misunderstandings.

If they do not want to reduce your rent, you could ask for a different temporary solution. For example, if you have problems with condensation or damp and mould, you could ask them to provide a dehumidifier or electric heater.

Step 4: complain and take legal action

If your landlord refuses to negotiate or you cannot reach an agreement, you could take them to court to get your rent reduced or get compensation. Check our advice if:

Your landlord cannot evict you for asking for repairs or for complaining.

Withholding rent could put you at risk of eviction. If you decide to do this, it's important to keep the money aside in case you need to pay it back. Check our advice on withholding rent.

Last updated: 9 January 2025

Housing laws differ between Scotland and England.

This content applies to Scotland only.

Get advice if you're in England