Right to compensation for improvements

Right to compensation for improvements

Secure tenants can apply for compensation for certain improvements they have carried out to their homes since 1 April 1994. 

An application can be made by the tenant within 28 days before, or 14 days after, the end of the tenancy. 

A qualifying person (tenants who may claim compensation) can be: 

  • the tenant that made the improvement 
  • anyone who became a tenant jointly with the improving tenant 
  • a person succeeding to the tenancy on the death of the improving tenant 
  • assignees who would have qualified to succeed to the tenancy if the tenant had died 
  • a spouse or former spouse, cohabitant or former cohabitant to whom the tenancy was assigned or transferred by a court order following a relationship breakdown 

The list below shows the qualifying improvement (works the tenant may claim for) and the notional life span in years: 

  • bath or shower - 12 years
  • wash hand basin -12 years
  • toilet - 12 years
  • kitchen sink - 10 years 
  • storage cupboards in bathroom or kitchen - 10 years
  • work surfaces for food preparation - 10 years
  • space or water heating - 12 years
  • thermostatic radiator valves - 7 years
  • insulation of pipes, water tank or cylinder - 10 years
  • loft insulation - 20 years
  • cavity wall insulation - 20 years
  • draught proofing of external doors or windows - 8 years
  • double glazing or other external window replacement of glazing - 20 years
  • rewiring or the provision of power and lighting or other electrical fittings (including smoke detectors) - 15 years
  • security measures (excluding burglar alarm systems) - 10 years

The tenant can claim compensation for: 

  • the cost of materials (but not appliances such as a cooker or a fridge) 
  • labour costs (but not DIY) 

The tenant can get up to a total of £3,000 for any one improvement, but will not get any compensation if the cost is below £50. The amount of compensation will depend on the age and condition of the improvement when the claim is made. 


Go to the tenant handbook