Plumbing & Leak Claims
Plumbing & Water Leak Housing Disrepair Claims
Burst pipes, leaking roofs, sewage issues and water damage can destroy your belongings and damage your health. Your landlord has a legal duty to fix plumbing defects.
- Burst pipes and water leak claims
- Sewage and drainage defect claims
- Compensation for water-damaged belongings
- Free, no-obligation initial consultation
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Plumbing disrepair claims
When your landlord must fix plumbing problems
Under section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, your landlord is responsible for installations for the supply of water, gas and electricity, and for sanitation including drainage. Plumbing defects are squarely within this duty.
Plumbing defects in rented properties encompass a wide range of problems, all of which fall squarely within the landlord's repair obligations under section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. Burst pipes are the most dramatic — a single burst pipe can cause thousands of pounds of damage to floors, walls, furniture and electronics in a matter of hours. But slower leaks from faulty joints, corroded pipes and defective stop cocks can be equally damaging over time, causing persistent damp, structural damage and mould growth. Blocked drains and sewage issues are particularly unpleasant, creating health hazards from bacteria and contamination. Roof leaks, while technically a structural issue, frequently present as water damage inside the property and fall within the landlord's duty to maintain the structure and exterior. The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 provides additional protection, as a property with significant plumbing defects is not fit for habitation. The Defective Premises Act 1972 also applies where plumbing defects create a danger to the occupants.
The consequences of plumbing defects can be devastating for tenants. Water damage ruins carpets, laminate flooring, furniture, electronics, clothing and personal items — all of which can be claimed as special damages at their current replacement cost. Persistent leaks lead to damp and mould, causing the same respiratory and health issues that affect tenants in any damp property. Sewage leaks create contamination risks including gastroenteritis, E. coli and other serious infections. Beyond the physical damage, living in a property with ongoing plumbing problems causes significant stress, inconvenience and loss of enjoyment of your home. Where plumbing defects have caused injury — for example, a slip on a wet floor or scalding from a defective hot water system — you may also have a personal injury claim alongside the housing disrepair claim.
To pursue a plumbing disrepair claim, you must notify your landlord in writing about the defect and give them a reasonable period to carry out repairs. For urgent issues such as burst pipes and sewage leaks, a reasonable period may be as short as 24 to 48 hours. For less urgent issues such as dripping taps or slow drains, 14 to 28 days is typical. Keep all correspondence, take photographs and video of the water damage, and preserve receipts for any damaged belongings. Abraham Baron Solicitors, based in Birmingham, handle all plumbing and water leak claims on a no win, no fee basis. We pursue compensation for the inconvenience, the cost of damaged belongings, any health impact, and we obtain court orders requiring the landlord to complete repairs. Call us on 0330 133 0777 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Plumbing claims we handle
Types of plumbing claims
Plumbing and water leak claims we handle
From burst pipes to sewage defects, we pursue all plumbing disrepair claims against landlords
Burst pipes
Sudden pipe failures causing flooding and extensive water damage to property and belongings
Persistent leaks
Slow leaks from joints, fittings and corroded pipes causing ongoing water damage and damp
Blocked drains and sewage
Drain blockages and sewage backup creating contamination and serious health hazards
Roof and gutter leaks
Water ingress through damaged roofing, flashing and guttering into the property
Water supply defects
Faulty stop cocks, inadequate water pressure and supply pipe failures
Water damage to belongings
Furniture, electronics, flooring and personal items destroyed by water claimed as special damages
Consequences of plumbing disrepair we claim for
Why choose Abraham Baron Solicitors for your plumbing claim?
No Win No Fee
You pay nothing unless we recover compensation. Zero upfront cost for plumbing claims.
Emergency Response
Burst pipes and sewage issues need urgent action. We act fast to force landlord compliance.
Full Damages Claimed
We claim for every damaged item — furniture, electronics, flooring, clothing and personal belongings.
Independent Surveys
We instruct independent plumbing surveyors to assess defects and identify the cause.
Injunctions for Repairs
Where landlords refuse to act, we obtain court orders compelling them to complete repairs.
All Landlord Types
We claim against private landlords, councils and housing associations with equal expertise.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Is my landlord responsible for a burst pipe?
Yes. Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 places a duty on landlords to keep in repair installations for the supply of water. This includes all pipes, joints, stop cocks and fittings that form part of the property's plumbing system. A burst pipe is a clear failure of the installation and the landlord is responsible for repairing it and for any consequential damage. The only exception would be if the tenant deliberately caused the damage, which is extremely rare.
Can I claim for water-damaged belongings?
Yes. Belongings damaged by water from plumbing defects are claimed as special damages — the actual cost of replacing items at current prices. This includes furniture, electronics, carpets, laminate flooring, clothing, bedding and any other personal property. Keep damaged items where possible, take photographs, and retain any receipts for original purchases or replacement costs. Abraham Baron Solicitors compile a comprehensive schedule of losses as part of every plumbing claim.
What if the leak is coming from the flat above?
If you live in a flat and water is coming from the property above, your landlord remains responsible if they own or manage both properties, or if the leak originates from communal plumbing or the building fabric. If the leak comes from a neighbouring property with a different landlord, the situation is more complex but you may still have a claim against your own landlord for failing to maintain the building structure. Abraham Baron Solicitors investigate the source of the leak and identify the responsible party as part of your claim.
My landlord says the plumbing problem is my fault — what can I do?
Landlords frequently attempt to blame tenants for plumbing problems to avoid their repair obligations. In reality, the vast majority of plumbing defects — burst pipes, corroded joints, blocked main drains, defective stop cocks — are caused by age, wear and deterioration of the installation, not tenant behaviour. Abraham Baron Solicitors instruct independent plumbing surveyors who assess the cause of the defect and provide an expert report. If the surveyor confirms the defect is due to the condition of the installation rather than tenant misuse, the landlord's defence fails.
How quickly must my landlord repair plumbing defects?
The timeframe depends on the severity of the defect. A burst pipe or sewage leak is an emergency requiring repair within 24 to 48 hours. A dripping tap or slow leak is less urgent but should still be repaired within 14 to 28 days. Loss of water supply is treated as urgent. The key principle is reasonableness — the landlord must act promptly given the nature of the problem. Abraham Baron Solicitors specify the required timeframe in our pre-action correspondence based on the severity of the defect.
How your plumbing disrepair claim works
Simple, transparent process from start to finish
Free Consultation
Tell us about the plumbing defect, the damage caused and your landlord's response. We assess your claim for free.
Urgent Notification
We send a formal pre-action letter requiring your landlord to carry out repairs within a specified timeframe.
Evidence and Valuation
We compile surveyor reports, photographs, receipts for damaged belongings and calculate your total losses.
Compensation and Repairs
We negotiate settlement with your landlord or their insurers and pursue court proceedings if necessary.
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Speak to a solicitor today
Briefly outline your situation and we will come back to you with a sensible next step. No cost for the initial discussion and no obligation to instruct us.
- A solicitor reviews your enquiry—not a sales team
- Plain-English explanation of your options
- No pressure to proceed
- We aim to respond within 24 hours
Get Your Free Legal Assessment
A solicitor will review your case and contact you within 24 hours
Client reviews
Trusted by hundreds of clients
Stephane Bowley
I can recommend Ali to anyone he's very good at his job work really hard and keep you updated at all times.
Sheila Garces
I can't recommend this firm enough for their outstanding support during my housing disrepair case. From the very beginning, Ali made me feel heard and understood, which meant so much during what was a really stressful time.
Ahsan Hussain
Dealt with Isaa with regards to my personal injury claim, he was very professional and prompt with dealing with my claim, kept me updated and helped to get me a great settlement, would definitely recommend to others.
Shaz Josephs
From start to finish of my claim I can't say anything but thank you Isaa. 100% true to your word. What an amazing Solicitor.
Molly White
Absolutely amazing solicitors, helped me with my housing disrepair claim, from start to finish my solicitor Ali was amazing kept me updated on everything, everyone was also very polite who I spoke to highly recommended.
Alex
After a court case with my local council after their repeated failure for nearly two years to solve the mould and damp within my house I contacted Abraham Baron Solicitors and in no time did they help with my claim.
A M L
I am very grateful to Abraham Baron solicitors for their great work, specially Bahja has done a great work supporting me all the way through and they got the best result possible. Thank you very much.
Father and son Gaming
Took care of our claim from start to finish and the result was pretty decent. Thanks to everyone's hard work we got the desired outcome.
imaan aziz
Isaa has been a very good solicitor he has showed me and explained every detail of the situation I have been in and I appreciate it so much. I would recommend him to you guys.
Umar Asghar
Very highly respected people Nazsh and Ali Kassam both helped me with my case, always helped if I had any problems and concerns. Thank you so much for everything.
Aaron Webster
My handler Junayd did fantastic work in winning my settlement.
Arshe Habib
They are the most professional and the best when it comes to disrepair claims and worked really hard.
kamal hamed
Thank you so much Abraham Solicitors for sorting out my ongoing problems in my flats. Special thank you to Mr Ali Kassam — you are very talented, kind and responsible person.
Sean Connolly
I can recommend this company they fixed all my disrepair to my home. Jayned was my solicitor and he was excellent and I'd use them again if I need their help.
Satish Malaviya
I had an excellent experience with Abraham Baron Solicitors. Special thanks to Issa, who handled my case with great professionalism, clear communication, and genuine care.
Sacherevell Aikens
Abraham Baron Solicitors are great to work with. Very helpful, above and beyond. If you need a solicitor ask for Iman Chishty, he is very good.
Usama Khan
I had an excellent experience with Abraham Baron Solicitors while handling my injury claim. The process was smooth, professional, and stress-free. A special thank-you to Maria, who did all the hard work.
Rumana Miah
Abraham Baron Solicitors were very professional, helpful, supportive and patient throughout. They ensured our claim was dealt with efficiently and always communicated to us.
Becky Maunder
Junahd was absolutely amazing with my case. He went above and beyond to help me. Outstanding service provided by him and great outcome. Couldn't be more happier.
H Singh
Thank you to Issa. Always kept me updated during the whole process of the claim. Appreciate the time and dedication he put in.
Mhamad Maulud
I want to give 5 star review to Abraham Baron Solicitors for great job and professional. Special thanks to Issa for his support. They were able to get good money for my injury claim very quickly.
Jim Mummert
Excellent result achieved with the professional assistance of Solicitor Sejal Karavadra who specializes in visa applications and the Home Office. Highly recommended.
Isa Ali
I want to give my full appreciation to Abraham Baron Solicitors and especially to Imam for his outstanding support with my housing disrepair claim. When I had lost hope, they guided me with professionalism.
Jane Hunt
Absolutely fantastic service, totally professional and respectful at all times. I was updated and kept informed every step of the way. I'm really happy with the outcome which was a really quick process.
Darren Stone
Abraham Baron Solicitors done a great job with my damp claim and would highly recommend them.
Julie Pinot de Moira
We found them supportive and thorough.
Jalil Nebizai
The best firm I have dealt with, very professional, very knowledgeable, amazing customer service. Would like to praise Mubi, who did amazing work. She went the extra mile and made a lot of effort on my claim.
Rizgar Zaree
2 times in the last 8 months I gave my case to Isaa and he went above and beyond to settle my claim very quickly. Very professional and reliable service.
katherine Harrison
The firm Abraham Baron Solicitors Limited is a fantastic firm, very professional, extremely kind. Get things done very fast. Very easy to contact and the outcome is true to the lawyers' words.
Marcus Williams
Highly recommended this company. Great communication levels from start to finish. Imam very friendly and good at his job, many thanks to you guys.
Phillip Marriott
Munira and Abraham both worked extremely hard to get the repairs done. Even though it was something they don't usually deal with, they got us the result we wanted.
Daisy Maria
Iman has been amazing from the very first day we spoke and has always paid complete attention to my needs. He has communicated with me throughout and shown so much support.
Kristal Thomas
I am very satisfied with the work that Imam and the firm has done from start to finish. Excellent communication throughout and have achieved an excellent outcome.
A Demisse
ABS is very helpful, pays attention to what I am saying, and is totally honest. I received so much help from Mr Ali Kassam, who handled my case professionally from start to finish.
Anil Badhan
Gave my case to Issa Khan and he went above and beyond to settle my claim. Very professional and reliable service. I felt valued as a customer.
Jay
Iman Chishty is the man. He done an amazing job, helped me so much and is a good and down to earth person to speak to. Highly Recommended.
fozia c
Excellent professional service! Isaa Khan handled my accident claim with prompt communication and a favourable outcome — closed within a matter of weeks.
Matthew Hurley
Yes and thank you very much for all the help, really grateful.
VernB
Imam has been the best. From the beginning he gave me good advice and support because it wasn't an easy process but with his frequent updates and explanations of the next steps, I felt at ease.
Lee Duffy
Can't thank this firm enough and the gentleman who helped me. With me being so ill, all these problems just got too much for me. I'd recommend these guys to anybody out there.
T G
Can't recommend this firm enough and Imam who took on my case has been so helpful keeping me updated with things and getting me the help I needed!
NANCY THORPE
Exceptional service provided by the company. Specifically Hana Nasreen — she provided knowledge and experience with a professional approach with regular updates. She dealt with my disrepair claim successfully.
Muryam Rivers
Exceptional service provided by the company and specifically from Imam. Professional approach, commitment, and regular updates. Dealt with issues and concerns successfully.
Natasha Frost
Amazing, friendly, helpful and go the extra mile! Abraham helped me with a case against my landlord.
Talha Khan
I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional service provided by Abraham Baron Solicitors, particularly by Sejal Karavadra. Her dedication and commitment to my case were truly remarkable.
arsham manouk
We are council tenants and we had a great experience with this firm. They helped us resolve a situation with our upstairs neighbours, whose persistent leaks were damaging our property.
Caroline Aro
We had a lovely experience with this firm. The client care was exceptional, the advice was easy to understand. My father felt his voice was heard all the time. They won the case.
Raise Malik
From the very beginning, I experienced excellent service with Abraham Baron Solicitors. Throughout my claim, they kept me well-informed, patiently explaining whenever needed.
akhtar miah
I had an exceptional experience. Their professional approach and unwavering confidence in handling my case truly stood out. The team's expertise and dedication provided me with peace of mind.
Adam Kalam
I was extremely impressed with the level of professionalism that the team provided me with. They really went the extra mile to make sure everything was completed exactly how we wanted it.
Mohammed Rashid
Absolutely fantastic service, very efficient, good communication at all times. Nice and prompt resolution, very happy with their service indeed.
mohsin Farooq
5 star service, very professional. Will recommend to all friends and family. Thank you Abraham.
Parminder Badhan
Outstanding service. If you're looking for a solicitor who is prompt, efficient and helpful with excellent communication skills, I would highly recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors.
Azharul Islam
Very knowledgeable in many areas, extremely clear in all communications and a genuine caring organisation. I fully recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors.
Hammad Ullah Sharif
Highly competent at what they do! The professional guidance and support provided was above and beyond. Would happily recommend.
Aman Rayat
Amazing solicitors!! I would definitely recommend them as they are very knowledgeable and give the best service to all their clients.
The Magnetic Muslimah
I definitely recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors, top service, very quick response, great customer service. Abraham is very knowledgeable and knows the law very well.
Jayesh Bhatt
Brilliant service, very professional and helpful and also very efficient.
Adele Dwyer
I am very happy with the work that has been done for my family, and very impressed with the work done in a short time frame. I would recommend this firm to others.
Stephane Bowley
I can recommend Ali to anyone he's very good at his job work really hard and keep you updated at all times.
Sheila Garces
I can't recommend this firm enough for their outstanding support during my housing disrepair case. From the very beginning, Ali made me feel heard and understood, which meant so much during what was a really stressful time.
Ahsan Hussain
Dealt with Isaa with regards to my personal injury claim, he was very professional and prompt with dealing with my claim, kept me updated and helped to get me a great settlement, would definitely recommend to others.
Shaz Josephs
From start to finish of my claim I can't say anything but thank you Isaa. 100% true to your word. What an amazing Solicitor.
Molly White
Absolutely amazing solicitors, helped me with my housing disrepair claim, from start to finish my solicitor Ali was amazing kept me updated on everything, everyone was also very polite who I spoke to highly recommended.
Alex
After a court case with my local council after their repeated failure for nearly two years to solve the mould and damp within my house I contacted Abraham Baron Solicitors and in no time did they help with my claim.
A M L
I am very grateful to Abraham Baron solicitors for their great work, specially Bahja has done a great work supporting me all the way through and they got the best result possible. Thank you very much.
Father and son Gaming
Took care of our claim from start to finish and the result was pretty decent. Thanks to everyone's hard work we got the desired outcome.
imaan aziz
Isaa has been a very good solicitor he has showed me and explained every detail of the situation I have been in and I appreciate it so much. I would recommend him to you guys.
Umar Asghar
Very highly respected people Nazsh and Ali Kassam both helped me with my case, always helped if I had any problems and concerns. Thank you so much for everything.
Aaron Webster
My handler Junayd did fantastic work in winning my settlement.
Arshe Habib
They are the most professional and the best when it comes to disrepair claims and worked really hard.
kamal hamed
Thank you so much Abraham Solicitors for sorting out my ongoing problems in my flats. Special thank you to Mr Ali Kassam — you are very talented, kind and responsible person.
Sean Connolly
I can recommend this company they fixed all my disrepair to my home. Jayned was my solicitor and he was excellent and I'd use them again if I need their help.
Satish Malaviya
I had an excellent experience with Abraham Baron Solicitors. Special thanks to Issa, who handled my case with great professionalism, clear communication, and genuine care.
Sacherevell Aikens
Abraham Baron Solicitors are great to work with. Very helpful, above and beyond. If you need a solicitor ask for Iman Chishty, he is very good.
Usama Khan
I had an excellent experience with Abraham Baron Solicitors while handling my injury claim. The process was smooth, professional, and stress-free. A special thank-you to Maria, who did all the hard work.
Rumana Miah
Abraham Baron Solicitors were very professional, helpful, supportive and patient throughout. They ensured our claim was dealt with efficiently and always communicated to us.
Becky Maunder
Junahd was absolutely amazing with my case. He went above and beyond to help me. Outstanding service provided by him and great outcome. Couldn't be more happier.
H Singh
Thank you to Issa. Always kept me updated during the whole process of the claim. Appreciate the time and dedication he put in.
Mhamad Maulud
I want to give 5 star review to Abraham Baron Solicitors for great job and professional. Special thanks to Issa for his support. They were able to get good money for my injury claim very quickly.
Jim Mummert
Excellent result achieved with the professional assistance of Solicitor Sejal Karavadra who specializes in visa applications and the Home Office. Highly recommended.
Isa Ali
I want to give my full appreciation to Abraham Baron Solicitors and especially to Imam for his outstanding support with my housing disrepair claim. When I had lost hope, they guided me with professionalism.
Jane Hunt
Absolutely fantastic service, totally professional and respectful at all times. I was updated and kept informed every step of the way. I'm really happy with the outcome which was a really quick process.
Darren Stone
Abraham Baron Solicitors done a great job with my damp claim and would highly recommend them.
Julie Pinot de Moira
We found them supportive and thorough.
Jalil Nebizai
The best firm I have dealt with, very professional, very knowledgeable, amazing customer service. Would like to praise Mubi, who did amazing work. She went the extra mile and made a lot of effort on my claim.
Rizgar Zaree
2 times in the last 8 months I gave my case to Isaa and he went above and beyond to settle my claim very quickly. Very professional and reliable service.
katherine Harrison
The firm Abraham Baron Solicitors Limited is a fantastic firm, very professional, extremely kind. Get things done very fast. Very easy to contact and the outcome is true to the lawyers' words.
Marcus Williams
Highly recommended this company. Great communication levels from start to finish. Imam very friendly and good at his job, many thanks to you guys.
Phillip Marriott
Munira and Abraham both worked extremely hard to get the repairs done. Even though it was something they don't usually deal with, they got us the result we wanted.
Daisy Maria
Iman has been amazing from the very first day we spoke and has always paid complete attention to my needs. He has communicated with me throughout and shown so much support.
Kristal Thomas
I am very satisfied with the work that Imam and the firm has done from start to finish. Excellent communication throughout and have achieved an excellent outcome.
A Demisse
ABS is very helpful, pays attention to what I am saying, and is totally honest. I received so much help from Mr Ali Kassam, who handled my case professionally from start to finish.
Anil Badhan
Gave my case to Issa Khan and he went above and beyond to settle my claim. Very professional and reliable service. I felt valued as a customer.
Jay
Iman Chishty is the man. He done an amazing job, helped me so much and is a good and down to earth person to speak to. Highly Recommended.
fozia c
Excellent professional service! Isaa Khan handled my accident claim with prompt communication and a favourable outcome — closed within a matter of weeks.
Matthew Hurley
Yes and thank you very much for all the help, really grateful.
VernB
Imam has been the best. From the beginning he gave me good advice and support because it wasn't an easy process but with his frequent updates and explanations of the next steps, I felt at ease.
Lee Duffy
Can't thank this firm enough and the gentleman who helped me. With me being so ill, all these problems just got too much for me. I'd recommend these guys to anybody out there.
T G
Can't recommend this firm enough and Imam who took on my case has been so helpful keeping me updated with things and getting me the help I needed!
NANCY THORPE
Exceptional service provided by the company. Specifically Hana Nasreen — she provided knowledge and experience with a professional approach with regular updates. She dealt with my disrepair claim successfully.
Muryam Rivers
Exceptional service provided by the company and specifically from Imam. Professional approach, commitment, and regular updates. Dealt with issues and concerns successfully.
Natasha Frost
Amazing, friendly, helpful and go the extra mile! Abraham helped me with a case against my landlord.
Talha Khan
I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional service provided by Abraham Baron Solicitors, particularly by Sejal Karavadra. Her dedication and commitment to my case were truly remarkable.
arsham manouk
We are council tenants and we had a great experience with this firm. They helped us resolve a situation with our upstairs neighbours, whose persistent leaks were damaging our property.
Caroline Aro
We had a lovely experience with this firm. The client care was exceptional, the advice was easy to understand. My father felt his voice was heard all the time. They won the case.
Raise Malik
From the very beginning, I experienced excellent service with Abraham Baron Solicitors. Throughout my claim, they kept me well-informed, patiently explaining whenever needed.
akhtar miah
I had an exceptional experience. Their professional approach and unwavering confidence in handling my case truly stood out. The team's expertise and dedication provided me with peace of mind.
Adam Kalam
I was extremely impressed with the level of professionalism that the team provided me with. They really went the extra mile to make sure everything was completed exactly how we wanted it.
Mohammed Rashid
Absolutely fantastic service, very efficient, good communication at all times. Nice and prompt resolution, very happy with their service indeed.
mohsin Farooq
5 star service, very professional. Will recommend to all friends and family. Thank you Abraham.
Parminder Badhan
Outstanding service. If you're looking for a solicitor who is prompt, efficient and helpful with excellent communication skills, I would highly recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors.
Azharul Islam
Very knowledgeable in many areas, extremely clear in all communications and a genuine caring organisation. I fully recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors.
Hammad Ullah Sharif
Highly competent at what they do! The professional guidance and support provided was above and beyond. Would happily recommend.
Aman Rayat
Amazing solicitors!! I would definitely recommend them as they are very knowledgeable and give the best service to all their clients.
The Magnetic Muslimah
I definitely recommend Abraham Baron Solicitors, top service, very quick response, great customer service. Abraham is very knowledgeable and knows the law very well.
Jayesh Bhatt
Brilliant service, very professional and helpful and also very efficient.
Adele Dwyer
I am very happy with the work that has been done for my family, and very impressed with the work done in a short time frame. I would recommend this firm to others.
Your first conversation is free, confidential, and without obligation. Contacting us does not start proceedings or commit you to any fees.