Introduction to Requesting Repairs
Requesting repairs from your landlord is a crucial step in ensuring your home remains safe, comfortable, and fit for living. Addressing problems as soon as they arise – whether it’s a leaking roof, faulty heating, or broken appliances – can prevent small issues from becoming bigger, more costly problems. Promptly reporting repairs not only protects your wellbeing but also helps you fulfil your responsibilities as a tenant.
Under UK law, tenants have the right to live in a property that is in good repair and free from hazards. Your landlord is generally responsible for most major repairs, including the structure of the property, heating and hot water systems, and sanitary fittings like sinks and baths. However, as a tenant, you’re expected to take care of the property and report any issues as soon as you notice them. For a full overview of what you and your landlord are each responsible for, see our guide to repairs and maintenance.
The process for requesting repairs typically starts with notifying your landlord or letting agent about the problem. It’s best to put your request in writing – by email or letter – so you have a clear record of your communication. Include as much detail as possible: describe the issue, note when it started, and attach photos if you can. This helps your landlord understand the urgency and nature of the repair.
Clear, polite communication is key. Explain how the issue affects your daily life and ask for a reasonable timeframe for repairs. If your landlord doesn’t respond or refuses to carry out necessary work, you have further options, including escalating your request or seeking help from your local council.
Understanding your tenant rights is essential when dealing with repairs. The law – such as the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 – protects you from living in unsafe or unhealthy conditions and sets out what your landlord must do. By knowing your rights and following the correct steps, you can help ensure your home is well-maintained and any problems are dealt with promptly.
Steps to Request Repairs from Your Landlord
When you notice something in your home that needs fixing, it’s important to follow a clear process to get the problem resolved efficiently. Here’s a step-by-step guide to requesting repairs from your landlord:
Start by carefully inspecting the issue. Is it a leaking tap, broken boiler, mould, or something more urgent like a gas leak? Take photos or videos to show the extent of the problem and note down when you first noticed it. This evidence will help you clearly explain the situation and can be useful if there are any disputes later.
You should always inform your landlord or letting agent about repairs in writing, even if you’ve spoken to them in person or over the phone. An email or a letter is best, as it creates a record of your request. In your message, include:
A clear description of the problem
When you first noticed it
How it’s affecting you (for example, “the heating isn’t working and the property is very cold”)
Any supporting photos or videos
Be polite and specific. For example: _”I am writing to report that the boiler stopped working on 10 March 2024. This means there is no hot water or heating in the property. Please let me know when this can be fixed.”_
Save copies of every email, letter, and text message you send or receive about the repair. If you speak to your landlord by phone or in person, make a note of what was said and when. Keeping a detailed record can be crucial if you need to prove that you’ve reported the problem and followed up appropriately.
Landlords are legally responsible for most repairs and maintenance under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. The law expects landlords to carry out repairs within a “reasonable time.” What’s reasonable depends on the type of repair:
Urgent repairs (such as no heating in winter, gas leaks, or major water leaks): should be addressed within 24 hours.
Serious repairs (such as broken appliances or leaks causing damage): usually within a few days.
Routine repairs (minor issues like dripping taps): typically within 2–4 weeks.
If you’re unsure, ask your landlord for a timeline and check your tenancy agreement, which may set out specific timescales.
If your landlord doesn’t reply or take action within a reasonable time, send a polite reminder in writing. Reference your previous message and ask for an update. For example:
_”I wrote to you on 10 March 2024 about the broken boiler. Please could you let me know when the repair will be carried out?”_
If you still don’t get a response, you may need to escalate the issue. You can contact your local council’s environmental health department, especially if the disrepair is affecting your health or safety. They can inspect your home and may order your landlord to carry out the repairs.
By following these steps, you can help ensure your repair request is handled properly and protect your rights as a tenant. If you want to learn more about your responsibilities and your landlord’s obligations, see our guide to repairs and maintenance.
How to Write a Repair Request Letter or Email
Writing a clear and effective repair request is an important step in ensuring your landlord understands the problem and acts promptly. Whether you choose to send a letter or an email, your communication should be polite, detailed, and professional. Here’s how to make sure your request is taken seriously and you have a record of your efforts.
Be respectful: Start with a polite greeting and avoid aggressive language, even if you’re frustrated. This helps keep communication constructive.
Be specific: Clearly describe the issue, including what’s wrong, where it is, and how it’s affecting you.
Be concise: Stick to the relevant facts without unnecessary detail.
State your request: Clearly ask for the repair to be carried out, mentioning any relevant timeframes if the issue is urgent.
A good repair request should include the following details:
Your full name and address: This helps your landlord identify the property and tenant.
Date of the request: Always date your letter or email for reference.
Description of the problem: Explain exactly what needs repairing. For example, “The boiler has stopped working and there is no heating or hot water.”
Location of the issue: Specify where the problem is (e.g., “the kitchen tap is leaking”).
When the problem started: Mention when you first noticed the issue, as this can show how long you’ve been affected.
Urgency: If the problem affects your health, safety, or the security of your home, state this clearly. For example, issues with heating in winter, water leaks, or electrical faults should be marked as urgent.
Photos or evidence: Attach clear photos if possible, as these can help your landlord understand the extent of the problem.
Access arrangements: Let your landlord know when you are available for repairs, or if you’re happy for them to enter with your permission.
Subject: Request for Repair – Leaking Kitchen Tap
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that the kitchen tap at [your address] has developed a significant leak, which started on [date]. Water is dripping continuously, making it difficult to use the sink and potentially causing damage to the worktop.
I would be grateful if you could arrange for this to be repaired as soon as possible. I am available for a contractor to visit on weekdays after 5pm, or at weekends.
I have attached a photo of the leak for your reference.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Kind regards, [Your Name]
It’s important to keep a copy of every letter or email you send to your landlord. This provides proof that you have reported the issue, which can be crucial if the problem isn’t fixed and you need to take further action. If you send a letter, keep a copy and consider sending it by recorded delivery. For emails, save sent messages and any replies.
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, tenants have the right to request repairs, and landlords have a legal duty to keep the property in good repair. Keeping clear, dated records of your requests can help protect your rights if there are disputes or delays. Always report issues as soon as possible to avoid further damage or complications.
By following these steps, you can ensure your repair request is clear, reasonable, and well-documented, helping to resolve issues quickly and efficiently.
Understanding What Your Landlord Must Repair
Knowing exactly what your landlord is responsible for repairing is essential when you need to request repairs in your rented home. In the UK, landlords have clear legal obligations to keep certain parts of a property in good repair, and understanding these duties will help you make more effective requests – and know when you can press for action if repairs are delayed.
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11, landlords must:
Keep the structure and exterior of your home in good repair. This includes walls, roof, foundations, drains, gutters, windows, external doors, and chimneys.
Maintain installations for the supply of water, gas, electricity, and sanitation. This covers things like sinks, baths, toilets, and their pipework.
Ensure heating and hot water systems are working properly.
Repair communal areas if you live in a flat or shared building (for example, hallways, staircases, or entryways).
These obligations apply regardless of what your tenancy agreement says. Even if your contract tries to shift these responsibilities to you, the law generally overrides such terms.
For more detail on specific repair duties, see our guide on what your landlord has to repair.
As a tenant, you are expected to:
Use the property in a “tenant-like manner.” This means carrying out minor maintenance, such as changing light bulbs, unblocking sinks if they become clogged through normal use, or keeping the garden tidy if you have one.
Avoid causing damage, either deliberately or through neglect. If you or your guests damage something, you may be responsible for the repair costs.
You are not responsible for fixing problems that arise from normal wear and tear, such as a boiler breaking down or a roof developing a leak.
Understanding the split between landlord and tenant responsibilities is crucial. If you know exactly what your landlord must repair, you can:
Make clear and confident requests, referencing the law where needed.
Avoid disputes over who should fix a problem.
Take appropriate action if your landlord refuses or delays repairs, such as contacting your local council or seeking further advice.
If your landlord fails to carry out repairs that affect your health or safety, these issues may also fall under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), which sets standards for safe and healthy housing.
By being aware of your legal rights and responsibilities, you can make sure your home stays safe and well-maintained, and you’ll be better prepared to act if things go wrong.
Specific Repair Types and How to Request Them
When it comes to requesting repairs in your rented home, it’s important to know that not all repairs are the same. Some issues require urgent attention, while others follow a standard process. Understanding the different types of repairs and how to approach each one can help you communicate more effectively with your landlord and ensure your rights as a tenant are protected.
What counts as an emergency? Emergency repairs are issues that pose a serious risk to your health, safety, or the security of the property. Examples include:
Gas leaks or suspected carbon monoxide leaks
Major water leaks or burst pipes
Complete loss of heating or hot water, especially in winter
Electrical faults causing power loss or danger
Broken external doors or windows that compromise security
How to request: Contact your landlord or letting agent immediately by phone and follow up in writing (such as by email or text) to keep a record. Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords must carry out urgent repairs “within a reasonable time,” which will depend on the severity of the problem. If your landlord is unresponsive and the issue is dangerous, you may be able to arrange the repair yourself and claim back the cost, but you should seek advice before doing so.
What’s included? General repairs cover routine issues like:
Leaking taps or toilets
Faulty light fittings or sockets
Broken appliances provided by the landlord
Damaged fixtures, such as doors or windows
How to request: Write to your landlord or letting agent, clearly describing the problem and when it started. Attach photos if possible. The law (Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11) requires landlords to keep the structure and exterior of the property in good repair, as well as installations for water, gas, electricity, heating, and sanitation. Landlords should respond within a reasonable timeframe, which can vary depending on the nature of the repair.
Why is this important? Damp and mould can affect your health and damage your belongings. If the problem is caused by structural issues (such as leaks, rising damp, or poor insulation), your landlord is responsible for repairs under housing health and safety regulations.
How to request: Report the problem in writing, explaining where the damp or mould appears and how it has affected you. Include photos and mention any health problems caused. If the issue is due to condensation, your landlord should still help by ensuring the property is adequately ventilated and heated.
What are your rights? A lack of heating or hot water is considered a serious issue, especially in cold weather. Landlords must fix these problems promptly under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.
How to request: Contact your landlord as soon as you notice a problem. Explain how the lack of heating or hot water is affecting you and your household. For vulnerable tenants (such as young children, elderly, or disabled people), highlight any additional risks.
Legal requirements: Landlords are legally required to ensure all gas appliances are safe and to provide an annual Gas Safety Certificate. Electrical systems must also be safe and inspected regularly.
How to request: If you notice a faulty gas or electrical appliance, report it immediately. For gas issues, stop using the appliance and, if you smell gas, call the National Gas Emergency Service. For electrical issues, turn off the power to the affected area if safe to do so.
What’s included? Structural repairs involve the walls, roof, foundations, drains, gutters, and external pipes. These are always the landlord’s responsibility under Section 11.
How to request: Write to your landlord detailing the problem and any risks it poses to your safety or the property’s condition.
Some repairs, such as those affecting health and safety, require urgent action, while others follow a standard process. Always keep a record of your requests and any responses. For more detailed guidance on specific repairs, refer to dedicated guides or seek advice if your landlord is slow to act or refuses to carry out necessary work. Remember, your right to a safe and well-maintained home is protected by UK law.
Appliance Repairs
When it comes to appliance repairs in rented homes, it’s important to know who is responsible for fixing or replacing appliances such as ovens, fridges, washing machines, and boilers. In the UK, the landlord’s responsibility for appliance repairs largely depends on whether the appliance was provided as part of your tenancy.
Landlord Responsibilities for Appliance Repairs
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords are legally required to keep the structure and exterior of the property in good repair, as well as ensure that installations for the supply of water, gas, electricity, sanitation, and heating are working properly. This means that if your landlord supplied an appliance – such as a cooker, fridge, or washing machine – at the start of your tenancy, they are generally responsible for repairing or replacing it if it breaks down through normal use.
However, if the appliance was your own or was left behind by a previous tenant, the landlord is not obliged to repair it. Similarly, if damage is caused by misuse or negligence, you may be responsible for the cost of repairs.
How to Request Repairs for Broken Appliances
If an appliance provided by your landlord breaks down, notify your landlord or letting agent as soon as possible. Here’s how to make your request:
Report the Issue in Writing: Always make your request in writing (email or letter) so you have a record. Clearly describe the problem, including the make and model of the appliance, what’s wrong, and when you first noticed the issue.
Provide Evidence: Attach photos or videos if possible, as this can help your landlord understand the problem and arrange the right repair.
Request a Timely Response: Ask your landlord to confirm when the repair will be carried out. For essential appliances, such as boilers or fridges, repairs should be treated as urgent.
Keep Records: Save copies of all correspondence and any responses you receive. This can be important if you need to escalate the issue later.
If your landlord fails to respond or delays unreasonably, you have options. You may be able to contact your local council’s environmental health team, especially if the broken appliance is affecting your health or safety. For more detail on the process and your rights, see our dedicated guide to appliance repairs.
Common Questions
What if the appliance is not listed in my tenancy agreement? If your tenancy agreement is unclear, check the inventory provided at the start of your tenancy. If the appliance is listed, it’s likely your landlord’s responsibility.
Can I arrange the repair myself and deduct the cost from my rent? This is only advisable in certain circumstances and after following the correct legal process. Always seek advice before taking this step.
Understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding appliance repairs can help you maintain a safe and comfortable home. If you’re unsure, check your tenancy agreement or seek further guidance.
Kitchen Repairs
Kitchens are one of the most-used areas in any home, so it’s common for tenants to encounter repair issues here. Typical problems include leaking sinks, broken cupboard doors, faulty extractor fans, damaged worktops, or problems with built-in appliances such as ovens and hobs. Damp and mould can also develop if there are plumbing leaks or poor ventilation.
If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to act quickly. Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords are responsible for keeping the structure and exterior of the property in good repair, which includes essential kitchen fixtures like sinks, plumbing, and any built-in appliances provided as part of the tenancy. They must also ensure that the property is fit for human habitation, which covers problems like persistent damp, mould, or faulty cooking facilities.
To request kitchen repairs, follow these steps:
Document the Problem: Take clear photos of the issue and make a note of when you first noticed it. This evidence can be useful if repairs are delayed or disputed later.
Contact Your Landlord in Writing: Send a written request (by email or letter) describing the problem in detail. Include your photos and explain how the issue affects your use of the kitchen. Clearly state that you are requesting repairs under your rights as a tenant.
Allow Reasonable Time for a Response: Landlords should respond promptly, especially if the issue affects your health or safety (such as a broken cooker or leaking sink). For urgent repairs, such as a water leak, your landlord should arrange repairs as soon as possible – usually within 24 hours. For less urgent issues, reasonable timescales can range from a few days to a few weeks.
Follow Up if Repairs Are Delayed: If your landlord does not respond or fails to carry out the repairs, remind them in writing. Keep all correspondence as a record.
Know Your Next Steps: If repairs are still not carried out, you may be able to contact your local council’s environmental health team, who can inspect the property and order your landlord to make essential repairs.
For more detailed information on dealing with specific kitchen issues, such as appliance breakdowns or water leaks, see our full guide to kitchen repairs.
Remember, you should not attempt major repairs yourself, as this could affect your rights or even pose safety risks. Always report problems promptly and keep records of all communication with your landlord. This will help protect your rights and ensure your kitchen remains safe and functional.
Leaks and Roof Repairs
Leaks and roof damage can quickly lead to serious problems in your home, such as damp, mould, and even structural issues. That’s why it’s essential to act quickly if you notice water coming in through the roof, ceilings, or walls. Landlords in the UK are legally responsible for keeping the structure and exterior of the property in good repair, including the roof, gutters, and drains. This duty is set out in Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.
How to Report Leaks and Roof Damage
Notify Your Landlord Promptly As soon as you spot a leak or signs of roof damage, let your landlord or letting agent know straight away. Describe the problem clearly – for example, “There is water dripping from the ceiling in the bedroom whenever it rains” or “Tiles are missing from the roof, and water is coming in.” Take photos or videos as evidence, which can help show the extent of the damage.
Put Your Request in Writing Always follow up your report with a written request. This could be an email or a letter, which creates a record of when you reported the issue. Include details such as:The date you noticed the problem
Where the leak or damage is located
Any steps you have already taken (like using buckets to catch drips)
Your contact details for access
Request a Timely Response Leaks and roof problems are usually considered urgent repairs because of the risk of further damage and health hazards. Ask your landlord to confirm when they will send someone to inspect and carry out repairs. By law, landlords should deal with urgent repairs as soon as possible – usually within a few days.
Keep Records Save copies of all correspondence and photos. If the landlord delays or refuses repairs, these records will be important if you need to take further action.
If Repairs Are Delayed or Refused
If your landlord does not respond or fails to fix the problem within a reasonable time, you have options. You may be able to contact your local council’s environmental health team, who can inspect the property and order your landlord to carry out repairs if the issue affects your health or safety.
For more detailed information about your rights and the proper procedures, visit our page on leaks and roof repairs.
By acting quickly and following the correct steps, you can help ensure your home stays safe, dry, and well-maintained.
What to Do if Repairs Are Not Carried Out
If your landlord does not carry out repairs after you have reported them, you have several options to ensure your home remains safe and habitable. Here’s what you can do if repairs are delayed or refused, and how to escalate the issue if needed.
Start by sending a written reminder to your landlord or letting agent, clearly stating the outstanding repairs and referencing your previous requests. Keep copies of all correspondence and take dated photos of the problem areas. This documentation will be useful if you need to escalate the issue.
Landlords in the UK are legally responsible for most repairs to the structure and exterior of your home, heating and hot water systems, and sanitation facilities. These duties are set out in the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and, for environmental health hazards, in the Environmental Protection Act 1990. If repairs affect your health or safety, your local council can take action against your landlord.
If your landlord continues to delay or refuses to act, you can take further steps. Start by learning how to complain or escalate repairs issues. This usually involves:
Making a formal complaint to your landlord or letting agent, following their complaints procedure
Contacting your local council’s environmental health department if the problem poses a risk to your health or safety (such as damp, mould, or lack of heating)
Asking the council to inspect your home and serve a notice on your landlord to carry out repairs if necessary
If you rent from a housing association or local authority, you can escalate unresolved complaints to the Housing Ombudsman Service. The Ombudsman can investigate whether your landlord has acted fairly and recommend solutions.
As a last resort, you may be able to take your landlord to court. This could result in an order for repairs to be carried out and, in some cases, compensation. Before starting legal proceedings, it’s important to seek advice from a solicitor or a local advice centre.
Avoid withholding your rent to force repairs, as this can put you at risk of eviction. Instead, follow the correct procedures and keep clear records of all your actions.
If you’re unsure about your next steps, read our guidance on what to do if your landlord refuses or won’t pay for repairs. You’ll find more information on your rights and practical advice for dealing with difficult situations.
For a detailed overview of your rights and the legal framework surrounding repairs, refer to the Environmental Protection Act 1990. For additional support and guidance, the Housing Ombudsman Service provides helpful resources for tenants facing repair issues.
Handling Repair Costs and Invoices
When dealing with repairs in your rented home, questions often arise about who should pay for the work and what to do if you receive an invoice from your landlord. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help you avoid unnecessary costs and disputes.
Generally, landlords are legally responsible for most repairs to the structure and exterior of the property, as well as installations for water, gas, electricity, and sanitation. This is set out in the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. However, there are circumstances where you might receive an invoice for repairs, such as:
Damage Caused by Tenants or Guests: If you, someone living with you, or a visitor causes damage beyond normal wear and tear (for example, breaking a window or damaging fixtures), the landlord can ask you to pay for the repairs.
Unauthorised Repairs: If you arrange repairs without your landlord’s consent (unless it’s an emergency and you’ve tried to contact them), you might be responsible for the costs.
Neglecting Your Responsibilities: Tenants are usually required to take care of the property and carry out minor maintenance, such as changing light bulbs or keeping the garden tidy. If you neglect these duties and it leads to damage, you could be charged for repairs.
Your tenancy agreement should clearly outline which repairs you are responsible for and which fall to the landlord. By law, landlords cannot charge you for repairs that are their legal responsibility, such as fixing a leaking roof or a broken boiler. If your landlord tries to pass on these costs, you have the right to challenge the invoice.
Key points to remember:
You should only pay for repairs if you caused the damage or if it’s your responsibility according to your tenancy agreement.
Routine wear and tear, such as worn carpets or faded paint, is the landlord’s responsibility.
Always ask for a breakdown of the repair costs and evidence of the work carried out if you receive an invoice.
If your landlord sends you an invoice for repairs, don’t ignore it. Instead:
Check what the invoice is for: Compare the repairs listed with your tenancy agreement and the law.
Ask for evidence: Request receipts, quotes, or photos showing the damage and the work done.
Dispute unfair charges: If you believe you are not responsible for the repair, respond in writing explaining why you disagree. Keep copies of all correspondence.
Seek advice: If you’re unsure about your rights or how to respond, you can find more detailed guidance on what to do if your landlord sent you an invoice for repairs.
Remember, your landlord cannot deduct repair costs from your deposit without your agreement or a decision from a deposit protection scheme at the end of your tenancy. If you feel you’ve been unfairly charged, you can challenge the deduction through the scheme’s dispute resolution process.
By knowing your rights and responding appropriately, you can ensure you’re only paying for repairs you’re genuinely responsible for, and protect yourself from unfair charges.
Additional Support and Resources for Tenants
If you need extra help or advice about getting repairs done in your rented home, there are several resources and support services available to you. Knowing where to turn can make it easier to resolve issues and ensure your home stays safe and comfortable.
Independent Advice and Support
If you’re unsure about your rights or how to approach your landlord, organisations like Shelter and Citizens Advice offer clear, step-by-step guidance on reporting repairs. These services can help you understand the process, what to include in your communications, and what to do if your landlord does not respond or refuses to carry out repairs. You can also get advice on how to escalate your complaint to your local council if necessary.
Help with Housing Costs and Urgent Needs
If you’re struggling with rent or at risk of losing your home because of repair issues, you may be able to access housing assistance. This can include help with emergency accommodation, support for paying rent, or advice on your rights if your home becomes uninhabitable. The law protects tenants from unfair eviction when they have reported legitimate repair problems, particularly under the Housing Act 1988 and the Deregulation Act 2015, which provide protection against so-called “retaliatory eviction.”
Managing Repairs and Work Commitments
Dealing with repairs can sometimes disrupt your daily routine, especially if you need to be at home to let in contractors or supervise the work. If this affects your job, you might want to explore your right to request flexible working arrangements. UK law allows employees with at least 26 weeks’ service to request changes to their working pattern, such as working from home or adjusting hours. For more on your rights to request adjustments at work, see our guide on accommodations.
When to Seek Further Support
If you feel your landlord is ignoring your requests or you’re facing serious disrepair – such as persistent damp, unsafe electrics, or lack of heating – don’t hesitate to reach out for professional advice. Local authorities have powers under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) to inspect properties and require landlords to make necessary repairs.
Remember, you don’t have to face housing problems alone. Whether you need practical advice, financial help, or support balancing work and home life, there are resources ready to assist you at every step.
Safety and Structural Issues in Your Home
When it comes to your safety and the structural integrity of your home, it’s essential to act quickly. Serious issues – such as a leaking roof, faulty wiring, unsafe gas appliances, or signs of structural collapse – can put you and your household at risk. Reporting these problems to your landlord as soon as you notice them isn’t just recommended; it’s your right as a tenant and your landlord’s legal responsibility to address them.
Safety and structural issues can escalate rapidly. For example, damp or mould caused by water leaks can damage your health, while unstable ceilings or walls may collapse without warning. Notifying your landlord in writing ensures there is a clear record of your request and helps demonstrate that you’ve taken reasonable steps to protect yourself and your home.
If you discover a safety or structural problem, follow these steps:
Contact your landlord or letting agent immediately. Use both phone and email if possible, and clearly state that the issue is urgent and relates to safety or the structure of the property.
Describe the problem in detail. Include when you first noticed it and how it is affecting your ability to live safely in the property.
Request a prompt response. Under UK law, landlords must carry out repairs within a reasonable time – urgent repairs should be prioritised.
Keep records. Save copies of all communications and take dated photos of the issue.
For more on your rights and the types of problems covered, see our guide to building safety and structural issues.
Landlords are legally required to keep your home safe and in good repair under the Building Regulations 2010. This includes ensuring the property is structurally sound, free from hazards, and compliant with safety standards. If your landlord fails to act on urgent repairs, you may have the right to:
Contact your local council’s environmental health department, who can inspect the property and order your landlord to make repairs.
Arrange for emergency repairs yourself and deduct the cost from your rent (but only after following the correct legal procedure).
Seek compensation if you or your belongings are harmed due to your landlord’s negligence.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 also underlines the duty to provide a safe environment, which extends to rented homes.
Remember, you should never try to fix serious safety or structural issues yourself. Always report these problems promptly and let your landlord arrange for qualified professionals to carry out repairs. If you’re unsure about your rights or what steps to take, seek advice from your local council or a tenants’ support organisation.
