Structure, fire & electrical safety
Spalling or crumbling balcony concrete
Flakes of concrete falling from the balcony edge, exposed rebar or cracked slabs.
Recognise the problem
Flakes of concrete falling from the balcony edge, exposed rebar or cracked slabs. Patterns we see most often: ongoing damp or smell, visible damage to a surface or appliance, a problem that returns after each repair, or a hazard that has been reported but not resolved.
Likely causes
- Rebar corrosion causing concrete to spall.
- Freeze-thaw damage over many winters.
What to document
- Photos of the balcony edge and any debris on the ground below.
Reporting to your landlord
- Report in writing as an immediate safety concern.
- Avoid using the balcony until inspected.
Not sure what to do next?
Tell us what has gone wrong at home. We will review the information you provide and explain the next step for your tenancy.
Request a QuoteWhat help is available
- Help pushing for an engineer's inspection.
- Assistance with a complaint if the issue is wider in the building.
Common questions
Does this always lead to a compensation claim?
No. A recognised hazard is not automatically a claim – it depends on the duty, your tenancy, how long it has been unresolved and the evidence you can show.
Should I stop paying rent?
No. Withholding rent usually makes matters worse. Keep reporting the problem in writing and let us or an advisor review the next step.
What if my landlord says it is condensation and my fault?
That is a common response. Cause and liability are different questions. We can help you request a professional assessment.