A landlord's guide to rights and responsibilities for property repairs

While you have tenants in your rental property, you have certain responsibilities to them as their landlord, one of the most important of which is to carry out certain repairs when necessary. Your tenants have the right to live in a property that is safe and in good condition, so you need to ensure that you take action if they contact you over any issues.

If your tenants contact you requesting a repair, you should let them know when they can expect it to be completed. You may choose to allow tenants to carry out repairs in the tenancy agreement, but you cannot make them repair anything which is meant to be your responsibility.

LANDLORDS - OR LETTING AGENTS ACTING ON THEIR BEHALF - ARE CONSIDERED RESPONSIBLE FOR REPAIRING OR ARRANGING REPAIRS TO:

• The property’s exterior or overall structure Sanitary fittings such as sinks, baths and toilets
• The pipes and drains of the property Heating equipment and the hot water supply
• Gas appliances Flues, chimneys, and ventilation
• Electrical wiring Damage to shared areas such as entrance halls or common staircases
• Any damage you cause to the property yourself if you are attempting to repair things
• Any other fixtures or fittings provided as part of the tenancy agreement, such as kitchen appliances

IF YOUR TENANTS CONTACT YOU REQUESTING A REPAIR, YOU SHOULD:

• Let them know when they can expect it to be completed.
• Give tenants 24 hours' notice if you wish to visit, or whatever time period is specified in the tenancy agreement if this is different, whether to carry out an inspection of the premises or to do repairs, if there are tenants living in the property.
• Arrange your visit for a reasonable time.