Introduction to Kitchen Repairs
Kitchens are one of the most frequently used spaces in any home, and in rented properties, they require particular attention when it comes to repairs and upkeep. Understanding who is responsible for fixing issues in the kitchen – whether it’s the landlord or the tenant – is essential for a smooth tenancy and helps prevent disputes.
In the UK, landlords have a legal duty to keep the structure and exterior of a rental property in good repair, which includes key parts of the kitchen. Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords must ensure that installations for the supply of water, gas, electricity, and sanitation (including sinks) are kept in proper working order. This means that if the kitchen sink is leaking, the tap is broken, or the plumbing is faulty, it’s usually the landlord’s responsibility to fix it.
Common kitchen repair issues include broken or faulty appliances (such as ovens, hobs, and extractors), damaged worktops or cupboards, and problems with plumbing like blocked drains or leaking pipes. If the landlord provided appliances as part of the tenancy, they are typically responsible for repairing or replacing them if they break down through no fault of the tenant. However, tenants are expected to use appliances and fixtures properly and to carry out minor maintenance, such as changing light bulbs or keeping the kitchen clean to prevent damage.
It’s important for both landlords and tenants to know their rights and obligations when it comes to kitchen repairs. Promptly reporting problems, keeping records of communication, and understanding the terms of the tenancy agreement can help resolve issues quickly. If repairs are delayed or refused, tenants have options to escalate the matter, including contacting the local council or seeking legal advice.
For a broader look at your rights and responsibilities around property upkeep, see our section on repairs and maintenance, which covers the general principles that apply to rented homes across the UK.
Landlord Responsibilities for Kitchen Repairs
Landlords in the UK have clear legal responsibilities when it comes to kitchen repairs in rented properties. Understanding these obligations helps both tenants and landlords know where they stand if something goes wrong in the kitchen.
By law, landlords are required to keep the structure and exterior of the property in good repair, which includes the kitchen. Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11, landlords must ensure that installations for the supply of water, gas, electricity, and sanitation are kept in proper working order. This covers key kitchen elements such as:
Sinks and taps
Water pipes and drains
Electrical wiring and sockets
Gas pipes and connections
If any of these essential services develop a fault, it is the landlord’s duty to fix them promptly.
Typical kitchen repairs that fall under the landlord’s responsibilities include:
Plumbing issues: Fixing leaking taps, blocked sinks, or faulty water supply.
Electrical problems: Repairing broken sockets, faulty light fittings, or unsafe wiring.
Structural defects: Addressing damaged flooring, broken cupboards, or issues with walls and ceilings that may affect safety or hygiene.
Ventilation: Ensuring extractor fans or ventilation systems are in good working order to prevent damp and mould.
For a full overview of what landlords must repair throughout the property, see our guide to landlord repair obligations.
If your landlord has provided appliances such as a cooker, fridge, or washing machine as part of the tenancy, they are generally responsible for repairing or replacing these if they break down through no fault of your own. However, if you have supplied your own appliances, you are usually responsible for their upkeep. Always check your tenancy agreement for specific details about appliance maintenance and repairs.
The kitchen is one of the highest-risk areas for fires in any home, so landlords must pay special attention to fire safety. This includes:
Ensuring that electrical appliances and wiring are safe and regularly maintained.
Providing smoke alarms and, in some cases, heat detectors in or near the kitchen.
Making sure escape routes are clear and accessible.
Landlords must comply with the Fire Safety Order 2005, which sets out their legal duties to protect tenants from fire risks. For more detailed information on what this means in practice, visit our fire safety page.
In summary, landlords are legally required to repair and maintain the main fixtures, fittings, and installations in the kitchen, as well as any appliances they have provided. They must also ensure the kitchen meets all relevant fire safety standards. If you believe your landlord is not meeting these obligations, it’s important to know your rights and how to raise the issue. For more details, refer to the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11 and our related guides.
Tenant Responsibilities and Rights Regarding Kitchen Repairs
As a tenant in the UK, you have important responsibilities and clear rights when it comes to kitchen repairs in your rented home. Understanding these can help prevent disputes and ensure your kitchen remains safe and functional.
Your Responsibilities
Tenants are expected to keep the kitchen clean and in reasonable condition. This means wiping down surfaces, cleaning appliances, and promptly dealing with spills to prevent mould or pest problems. If accidental damage occurs – like breaking a cupboard door or chipping a worktop – it’s your duty to report it to your landlord as soon as possible. Regular cleaning and reporting issues early can stop small problems from becoming bigger, more expensive repairs.
You are also responsible for minor maintenance. This includes tasks like changing light bulbs, unblocking a sink if it’s a simple blockage, or replacing smoke alarm batteries. However, you are not expected to carry out repairs that require specialist skills or deal with issues that result from normal wear and tear.
Your Rights to Request Repairs
Tenants have the right to live in a property that is safe and fit for habitation. If something in the kitchen breaks down – such as the oven, sink, or electrical fittings – it is usually your landlord’s responsibility to fix it, especially if it affects your ability to use the kitchen safely. You can formally request repairs, and your landlord must respond within a reasonable time. For urgent repairs, such as a gas leak or a broken boiler, landlords are expected to act quickly.
If your landlord delays or refuses to carry out necessary repairs, you have the right to escalate the matter. You can contact your local council’s environmental health department for help, or seek advice from a housing charity. In some cases, you might be able to arrange the repair yourself and deduct the cost from your rent, but this should only be done after following the correct legal process.
Handling Minor Maintenance vs. Landlord Responsibilities
It’s important to know the difference between minor maintenance, which is your responsibility, and repairs your landlord must handle. For example, tightening a loose cupboard handle is usually down to the tenant, but fixing a faulty extractor fan or repairing plumbing leaks is the landlord’s job. If in doubt, check your tenancy agreement, as it should set out who is responsible for what.
For a more detailed overview of your protections and obligations as a tenant, see our guide to tenant rights.
Legal Backing for Your Rights
Your rights and responsibilities around kitchen repairs are backed by law. The Housing Act 1988 sets out the legal framework for repairs and maintenance in rented properties. This legislation requires landlords to keep the structure and installations of the property in good repair, including facilities for cooking, washing, and food preparation.
Knowing your rights and acting promptly can help ensure your kitchen remains a safe and pleasant place to use throughout your tenancy.
How to Request Kitchen Repairs
When you notice a problem in your rented kitchen – such as a broken oven, leaking sink, or faulty cupboards – it’s important to request repairs from your landlord as soon as possible. Following the correct steps not only ensures the issue is addressed promptly but also helps protect your rights if the repair is delayed or refused.
Identify the Problem Clearly Before contacting your landlord, make sure you understand the issue. Is it an urgent repair, like a gas leak or electrical fault, or a less immediate problem, such as a loose cabinet door? Urgent repairs should always be reported as soon as possible, as they could affect your health or safety.
Contact Your Landlord in Writing Although you might be tempted to call or text, always report kitchen repair issues in writing – such as by email or letter. Written communication creates a clear record of your request and when it was made, which can be vital if you need to take further action later.
Include Key Information When reporting a kitchen repair, make sure your message includes:Your name and address
A detailed description of the problem (for example, “the oven is not heating up” or “there is a leak under the sink”)
When the problem started
Any steps you have already taken (such as turning off the water supply)
Photos or videos of the issue, if possible
A request for a response within a reasonable timeframe
Example:
“Dear [Landlord’s Name], I am writing to inform you that the oven in the kitchen has stopped working. The problem began on [date], and I am unable to use it for cooking. Please could you arrange for a repair as soon as possible? I have attached a photo for reference. Thank you.”
Keep Copies of All Communication Save copies of your emails, letters, and any replies from your landlord. If you speak on the phone, follow up with an email summarising the conversation.
Follow Up if Needed If you do not receive a response within a reasonable period (usually 14 days for non-urgent repairs, sooner for urgent issues), send a polite reminder and refer to your original request.
For more detailed advice on each step, see our how to request repairs guide.
Making your repair request in writing is important because it provides evidence if there are disputes later on. If the landlord fails to carry out necessary repairs, you may need to show that you reported the problem and gave them a reasonable chance to fix it. Written records can also be useful if you need to involve your local council or seek legal advice.
Under UK law, landlords are responsible for keeping kitchens in good repair, including fixtures, fittings, and appliances they have provided. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 sets out your rights regarding the quality and safety of goods and services in rented homes. If your landlord fails to respond to your repair request, you may have further options to escalate the issue.
By following these steps and keeping thorough records, you can help ensure that kitchen repairs are dealt with promptly and fairly.
Common Kitchen Repair Issues and Solutions
Kitchen problems are among the most common issues faced by tenants and landlords in rented properties. Knowing who is responsible for fixing these problems can help avoid disputes and ensure that repairs are handled promptly and correctly.
Some of the most frequent kitchen repair issues include:
Leaking taps or pipes: Water leaks under the sink or from plumbing fixtures are not only inconvenient but can also cause damage if left untreated.
Broken or faulty appliances: Ovens, hobs, fridges, and washing machines may stop working or become unsafe to use.
Faulty electrical sockets or lighting: Issues with power points or kitchen lights can be a safety hazard.
Damaged worktops, cupboards, or flooring: Everyday use can lead to wear and tear, broken cupboard doors, or cracked tiles.
Blocked sinks or drains: Food waste and grease can cause blockages, leading to slow drainage or unpleasant smells.
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords are generally responsible for keeping the structure and exterior of the property in good repair, as well as installations for the supply of water, gas, electricity, and sanitation. This means landlords must usually fix:
Leaking or burst pipes
Faulty plumbing and drainage
Electrical wiring and sockets
Structural damage, such as broken cupboards or worktops
Landlords are also responsible for repairing any appliances they have provided as part of the tenancy, such as built-in ovens or washing machines. For a detailed breakdown of these responsibilities, see our section on appliance repairs.
Tenants, on the other hand, are expected to:
Keep the kitchen clean and use appliances properly
Carry out minor maintenance, such as changing light bulbs or unblocking a sink if it’s caused by misuse
Report problems to the landlord as soon as they arise
If a repair is needed due to tenant misuse or accidental damage, the tenant may be responsible for the cost.
Some repairs can be handled by tenants, such as clearing a minor blockage from a sink using a plunger. However, more complex or potentially dangerous issues – like persistent leaks, electrical faults, or appliance breakdowns – should always be reported to the landlord, who is responsible for arranging professional repairs. Attempting to fix electrical or plumbing problems yourself can be unsafe and may breach your tenancy agreement.
For plumbing issues that go beyond the kitchen, such as leaks affecting other parts of the home or problems with the roof, you can find more information in our guide to leaks and roof repairs.
Always report kitchen problems in writing to your landlord or letting agent. Keep a record of your communication.
If repairs are not carried out in a reasonable time, you may have further rights, such as involving your local council.
Never attempt repairs that could risk your safety or breach your tenancy agreement.
Understanding your rights and responsibilities ensures that kitchen repairs are addressed quickly and fairly, keeping your home safe and comfortable.
What to Do If Repairs Are Not Carried Out Properly or Promptly
If your landlord does not carry out necessary kitchen repairs within a reasonable time, or the work is done poorly, you have several options to protect your rights and ensure your home remains safe and habitable.
Start by contacting your landlord again, preferably in writing (such as by email or letter), to remind them of their legal duty to keep the kitchen in good repair. Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structure, installations for the supply of water, gas, electricity, and sanitation – including kitchen sinks and worktops. Clearly state what repairs are needed, when you first reported the issue, and request a timeline for completion.
Maintain a record of all communications with your landlord about the repairs. Save copies of emails, letters, and texts, and make notes of any phone conversations (including dates and what was discussed). Take photographs of the problem areas in the kitchen and keep receipts for any related expenses, such as alternative cooking arrangements if the kitchen is unusable.
If your landlord continues to delay or refuses to act, you can escalate the matter:
Contact your local council’s environmental health department. They can inspect your property and may serve a notice on your landlord if the kitchen disrepair poses a risk to your health or safety.
Seek advice from a tenants’ advice service or housing charity. They can help you understand your rights and next steps.
Consider making a formal complaint. For a step-by-step guide on how to complain or escalate repairs issues, see our dedicated resource.
If your landlord outright refuses to fix the kitchen or claims they are not responsible, you may have additional options. These can include arranging the repairs yourself and seeking reimbursement, or, in some cases, withholding rent. However, these steps can carry risks and should only be taken after getting proper advice. Learn more about your options if your landlord refuses or won’t pay for repairs.
Sometimes, landlords may attempt to pass the cost of repairs on to you, especially if they believe the damage was caused by tenant misuse. It’s important to know when you are and are not responsible for repair costs. For guidance on what to do if your landlord sent you an invoice for repairs, visit our advice page.
If all else fails, you may be able to take legal action against your landlord for breach of contract or to claim compensation for inconvenience or damage to your possessions. Always seek professional advice before starting court proceedings.
By following these steps and keeping thorough records, you can help ensure your kitchen repairs are handled properly and your rights as a tenant are protected.
Understanding Broader Repair Obligations
When it comes to kitchen repairs, it’s important to understand how these fit within your landlord’s wider responsibilities for the whole property. Under UK law, landlords are generally required to keep the structure and exterior of the property in good repair, as well as ensure that essential installations for water, gas, electricity, sanitation, and heating are working properly. This means that while kitchen repairs are a key part of your rights as a tenant, they are just one aspect of a landlord’s broader duty to maintain a safe and habitable home.
What must landlords repair throughout the property? Landlords are legally responsible for more than just the kitchen. Their obligations typically include:
The structure and exterior, such as walls, roof, windows, and doors
Plumbing, including sinks, baths, toilets, and pipework
Heating and hot water systems
Electrical wiring and fixed installations
Common areas, if you live in a flat or shared building
Kitchens often involve several of these elements, such as sinks, electrical points, and built-in appliances. For example, if the kitchen tap leaks or the built-in oven stops working due to an electrical fault, it is usually the landlord’s responsibility to fix these issues. However, tenants are expected to use the property in a “tenant-like manner,” which means carrying out minor maintenance like changing light bulbs or keeping the kitchen clean.
For a comprehensive overview of all the areas landlords must maintain, see what does your landlord have to repair. You can also explore more detailed guidance on landlord repair obligations to understand exactly where the legal lines are drawn.
If you’re interested in the bigger picture, our section on repairs and maintenance provides further information about the general duties of landlords and tenants, including how to report problems and what to do if repairs aren’t carried out. By understanding these broader obligations, you’ll be better prepared to ensure that your kitchen – and the rest of your home – remains safe, comfortable, and in good repair.
