Housing Repairs in Rented Properties

For most tenants the law imposes certain repairing duties on the landlord, which s/he cannot contract out of. The landlord will normally be responsible for most of the following repairs.

The landlord must generally keep the amenities in the dwelling in good working order. The landlord may also have certain responsibilities associated with the good management of the accommodation, such as making sure that communal areas are kept clean and well lit. In properties which are in multiple occupation (HMO’s) the landlord may have additional responsibility to provide a suitable means of escape in case of fire and other necessary fire precautions

Enforcement of Repairs in Rented Properties:

The enforcement of repairs in rented properties is a responsibility of the Environmental Health Team. An officer will inspect the property and inform the Landlord of any works that are required to bring the accommodation to a certain standard. If the Landlord does not carry out these works the officer may issue a range of statutory notices, requiring the necessary works to be undertaken.

If a Landlord fails to carry out works following the issue of a statutory notice, a decision will be taken whether to prosecute for non-compliance. This would be via the Local Magistrates Court. If found guilty the Court will normally issue a Fine and/or other instructions to the Landlord.

Additionally, the Environmental Health team can arrange for 'works-in-default' to be undertaken. This means that quotations for the required works are obtained, a contractor is appointed and the works are completed. The Council subsequently pursues the Landlord for the resultant costs.