Responsibility for repairs

Addressing repairs quickly will reassure tenants and keep your property in good condition. It also ensures you’re following the law. 

Make sure you know which repairs are your responsibility. Your tenancy agreement should outline how you’ll handle repairs. 

If you and your tenant are in dispute over repairs, our free mediation service may help. It is available for both private tenants and landlords. 

Repair clauses in a tenancy agreement

Both you and the tenant will be responsible for different repairs. Responsibility should be clearly set out in your tenancy agreement.

The terms of the contract must be fair. You cannot make your tenant responsible for a repair that is your legal obligation. For example, holding your tenant liable for structural repairs is likely unfair.  

The tenancy agreement should outline: 

• how your tenant should report disrepair  
• what happens if a tenant damages something 
• who deals with communal parts of the building  
• your right of access to inspect and carry out repairs 

You should also include an emergency contact number for urgent repairs. 

Tenancy agreements with no repair clause

The law sets out the repair obligations if:

• you do not have a written tenancy agreement, or 
• your contract does not mention repairs  

In this case, you’ll be liable for repairs to: 

• the exterior of the property – including paintwork 
• the structure of the property – including drains, gutters and pipes 
• all water, gas, electricity, heating and sanitation systems 
• all fixtures and furnishings you provide 
• all appliances you provide 

You must also ensure all communal areas are in good repair, properly lit and safe.  

You still need to follow legal safety standards. There are extra requirements for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs).

Your tenant's responsibilities for repairs

The law says your tenants must: 

• report disrepair to you 
• take proper care of the property 
• get your permission before making changes. You should refuse only if you have a good reason not to allow the change. Keep a written record of what you agree. 
• repair any damage they (or their guests) cause 

Some tenants may want to replace your furniture or appliances with their own. Keep a written record of what you agree and update your inventory. This will clarify which items must remain in the property at the end of the tenancy.  

Tenants should ensure all items on the inventory are still in the property at the end of the tenancy.  Tenants are also responsible for repairing their own furnishings and appliances.