Repairs & Maintenance Knowledge Hub
Landlords and tenants share responsibilities when it comes to maintaining a safe and habitable rental property. This hub provides guidance on legal repair duties, how to report and document maintenance issues, and the proper course of action when repairs are ignored or disputes arise.
🛠️ Landlord Repair Duties (Legal Overview)
- Maintain structure and exterior (walls, roof, windows, etc.)
- Ensure water, gas, electricity, and sanitation are in working order
- Repair heating and hot water systems
- Respond to damp, mould, or safety hazards (under Awaab’s Law and Homes Act)
See full legislation: Section 11, Landlord and Tenant Act 1985
🧾 Tenant Responsibilities
- Report all disrepair promptly in writing
- Keep the property reasonably clean
- Prevent damage caused by misuse or neglect
- Allow access for inspections and repairs with proper notice
📨 How to Report a Repair
TLA recommends tenants use written communication when reporting disrepair. Use our pre-formatted templates for legal clarity and timeline tracking.
Keep copies of all messages, photos, and receipts related to the repair issue. This will be critical if legal action is required later.
📢 What If Repairs Are Ignored?
If a landlord fails to act after being notified, tenants can:
- Escalate the complaint to the local council’s Environmental Health department
- Begin a disrepair claim or compensation request
- Use the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 to take legal action
Visit the Disrepair Guide for full details.
📂 TLA Disrepair Support Tools
This guidance applies to rental properties in England and Wales. The TLA provides legal templates and resources but does not offer regulated legal advice. Always consult with your local authority or solicitor for serious or urgent disrepair issues.
