This guide breaks down common real-life problems and shows how you can take control. You’ll find simple, actionable guidance on housing disrepair, medical negligence, personal injury, public accidents, and workplace incidents—so you can move forward with confidence.
Problem 1: "My home is falling apart, and no one’s fixing it."
➤ The Solution: Housing Disrepair Claims
If your rented home is in poor condition and your landlord (including councils and housing associations) refuses to make repairs, you may be eligible to file a Housing Disrepair Claim.
Common Issues:
- Persistent mould or damp
- Broken boilers or electrics
- Roof leaks, plumbing damage
- Pests, infestation, or structural hazards
What You Can Do:
- Report the issue in writing to your landlord
- Take photos with time stamps
- Keep a log of health problems linked to the issue
- Contact your local council’s housing enforcement team
Tip: If ignored, you can claim for repairs and even compensation for inconvenience or health impacts.
Problem 2: "I was hurt, but it wasn’t my fault."
➤ The Solution: Personal Injury Claims
Accidents happen—but when someone else is to blame, you shouldn’t suffer in silence. Personal injury claims help you seek compensation for physical and emotional harm.
Real Scenarios:
- Falling due to uneven pavement
- Being injured in a shop or venue
- Harm caused by faulty products or installations
What You Should Do:
- Seek immediate medical treatment
- Collect evidence (photos, witnesses, incident reports)
- Keep receipts for travel, treatment, or other costs
Deadline: You usually have 3 years from the date of the injury to file a claim.
Problem 3: "I think the hospital made a mistake with my treatment."
➤ The Solution: Medical Negligence Claims
Healthcare providers are expected to offer a reasonable standard of care. If they fail to do so and you suffer harm, you may be entitled to raise a medical negligence claim.
Examples:
- Wrong diagnosis or delayed treatment
- Surgery errors
- Incorrect prescriptions
- Poor maternity or aftercare
What To Do:
- Request a full copy of your medical records
- Note all symptoms, timelines, and errors
- Obtain a second opinion from a different doctor
Time Limit: You must begin a claim within 3 years of knowing something went wrong.
Problem 4: "I was injured while working, and now I can’t earn."
➤ The Solution: Accident at Work Claims
In the UK, all employers must provide safe working conditions. If you were injured at work due to poor equipment, lack of training, or unsafe practices, you may qualify for an accident at work claim.
Common Injuries:
- Slips or falls in the workplace
- Back strain from heavy lifting
- Injuries caused by machinery or PPE failure
Next Steps:
- Report the incident to your manager
- Make sure it's recorded in the accident logbook
- Seek medical attention and follow through with treatment
Important: You cannot legally be dismissed for making a workplace claim.
Problem 5: "I had an accident in public, and now I’m facing bills."
➤ The Solution: General Accident Claims
Public spaces like shops, car parks, or public transport hubs are legally required to be safe. If you’ve been injured in such places, a general Accident Claims may apply.
Examples:
- Tripping in a supermarket aisle
- Being hit by falling signage
- Accidents on public transport
What You Should Do:
- Report the incident to the location manager or authority
- Take photos and get witness names
- Keep medical records and receipts
Tip: Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and supports your case.
Claim Preparation Checklist
Regardless of the type of claim, here's what you should always do:
- Collect and save all evidence
- Get medical treatment and reports
- Keep records of any communication (emails, letters)
- Document all costs and losses
- Understand your time limits
Who Can Help?
You don’t need to navigate this process alone. Here are organisations in the UK that can offer guidance or support:
- Citizens Advice – Offers free legal and housing help
- Housing Ombudsman – Helps with unresolved repair disputes
- Health and Safety Executive (HSE) – Supports workplace safety issues
- NHS Resolution – Handles medical error complaints
- Local Councils – Enforce housing and public safety rules
Each body works independently to support fairness and ensure proper complaint handling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need a solicitor to make a claim?
A: Not always. You can begin with public support services or file complaints directly. Legal support may be useful for complex claims.
Q: How long do I have to make a claim?
A: Usually 3 years from the date of the incident or the date you became aware of it. Exceptions apply to children and those lacking mental capacity.
Q: Can I claim if I didn’t go to hospital?
A: Yes, but medical evidence is essential—visit your GP for documentation if you haven’t already.
Conclusion: Start with the Right Knowledge
No one expects to face poor housing, medical errors, or sudden injuries—but these problems affect thousands across the UK every year. Knowing where you stand legally and how to act empowers you to protect your wellbeing, hold the right people accountable, and possibly receive compensation for harm caused.
From housing disrepair to injuries at work and errors in care, your rights matter. Use this guide to take control of your situation and start taking the right steps today.