Check if your landlord has to do repairs

Summary

This advice will usually apply to you if you rent from: * a private landlord and you don’t live with them Your landlord has to fix most repair problems in your home. There are also things you’re responsible for fixing yourself. If you already know what type of problem you have, you can: Your landlord is responsible for most major repairs to your home. This includes: * the structure of the property, for example walls, roof, windows and doors * heating and hot water, for example the boiler * the safety of gas and electrical appliances These repair responsibilities can't be removed by anything your tenancy agreement says. Also, your landlord isn't allowed to pass on the cost of any repair work to you which is their responsibility. Your landlord only has to make repairs when they know there’s a problem - so make sure you tell them about any repairs that are needed. Your landlord might have to make reasonable adjustments to the property - for example, if you’re disabled and need a handrail to help you get upstairs. Check how to ask for reasonable adjustments if you're disabled. You should check your tenancy agreement to find out if your landlord is responsible for any other repairs.

Key information

• a private landlord and you don’t live with them
• check what to do if your home has damp
• check what to do if your home is infested with pests or vermin
• check what to do if there's a leak from your neighbour
• check how to deal with flooding
• the structure of the property, for example walls, roof, windows and doors
• heating and hot water, for example the boiler
• the safety of gas and electrical appliances
• the general upkeep of your home
• whether you rent from a private landlord, or the council or a housing association
• what kind of repair problem you have and how serious it is
• gas or carbon monoxide leaks

Practical guidance

• Source: Check if your landlord has to do repairs

Related topics