Landlords’ responsibilities for repairs

Landlords are mandated by law to ensure that their leased properties remain in top shape, including adherence to particular safety criteria for gas and electrical setups.

It’s noteworthy to mention that Scotland and Northern Ireland each have distinct guidelines about property repairs.

Accessing the Premises for Inspections and Repairs

Legally, landlords can access their property for evaluations or to perform repairs. However, tenants must be informed at least 24 hours in advance, except in emergency cases. During the repair process, tenants are entitled to remain on the premises.

Landlords typically shoulder repair responsibilities for:

• The property’s structural integrity.
• Sanitary installations like sinks, tubs, and basins.
• Systems related to heating and hot water.
• Any accidental damages caused during repair attempts.
  In instances where the property undergoes extensive damage due to unforeseen events like fires or floods, landlords aren’t compelled to restore it. Yet, tenants shouldn’t be billed for these repairs if chosen to be mended.

Maintenance of Shared Spaces

For landlords overseeing a building with multiple flats, the upkeep of communal areas, such as stairwells, falls under their purview. Local councils possess the authority to instruct landlords to rectify issues in shared spaces or even address damages in a tenant’s unit caused by fellow occupants.

When Major Repairs Render the Property Uninhabitable

Landlords might necessitate tenants to vacate temporarily for significant repairs. In such cases, both parties should establish a written consensus on the following:

• The anticipated duration of the repairs.
• Assurances of the tenant’s right to preoccupy.
• Information on any provisional housing.
  It’s crucial to note that landlords can’t seize a property solely for repair purposes. If there’s a desire for extensive renovations or redevelopment, they can petition the courts to obtain an eviction order. Offering alternative housing can tilt the scales in the landlord’s favour.

Rent Adjustments Post Repairs

In situations where repairs heavily impact tenants’ living conditions, they might qualify for a ‘rent abatement’, contingent on the extent of property unavailability.

Subsequent to enhancements and repairs, landlords might possess the prerogative to revise the rent upwards, anchored by the specifics of the tenancy contract.

If you are a landlord and you need our help, you can find more information here.