Landlords are responsible for most major repairs to any
properties they let.
However, tenants are usually only responsible for minor
maintenance and putting right any damage they have caused.
It makes good financial sense for landlords to deal with repairs
quickly and professionally and those who act promptly remain
in control of the situation.
As such landlords should encourage tenants to report
problems directly to them at the earliest opportunity,
not to a contractor, to aid this process.
Landlords are always responsible for repairs to the following
and it is good to have
a
maintenance plan and system in place:
- Baths, sinks, toilets and other sanitary fittings including
drains and pipes
- Electrical wiring
- External doors and windows
- Gas appliances including flues, pipes and ventilation
- Heating and hot water
- Structures and exterior of buildings, walls
and roofs
Emergency repairs must be dealt with immediately to prevent
exposing anyone to danger and further damage.
These repairs may involve gas, electrical or plumbing problems
and if tenant report the smell of gas landlords must
instruct them to
contact British
Gas immediately on 0800 111 999.
In non-emergency situations landlords should give realistic
answers and timescales and if plans change tenants should be
kept informed.
However, in many cases there may be a legal responsibility
to carry out repairs and failure to do so will result in
a visit from our Housing Standards Team and possible legal
action.
