When renting a property, understanding who is responsible for repairs can prevent disputes and ensure that both landlords and tenants fulfil their obligations. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of who pays for what repairs, the rights and responsibilities of both parties, and answers common questions about repairs in rental properties in the UK.

What Repairs Are Tenants Responsible For?

Tenants have certain responsibilities when it comes to maintaining the rental property. These responsibilities typically include minor repairs and routine maintenance tasks.

Common Tenant Responsibilities

• Minor Repairs: Tenants are generally responsible for minor repairs such as changing light bulbs, unblocking sinks, and replacing batteries in smoke detectors.
• Cleaning and Upkeep: Tenants must keep the property clean and in good order, including regular cleaning and disposal of rubbish.
• Gardening: If the property includes a garden, tenants are usually responsible for its upkeep, including mowing the lawn, weeding, and trimming hedges.
• Reporting Issues: Tenants must promptly report any significant repair issues or damages to the landlord to prevent further deterioration.

Can a Tenant Deduct Repairs from Their Rent?

In some situations, tenants might consider deducting repair costs from their rent if the landlord fails to carry out necessary repairs. However, this should be approached with caution and legal advice.

• Seek Landlord’s Permission: Always notify the landlord about the required repairs and give them a reasonable amount of time to address the issue.
• Legal Advice: Before deducting any repair costs from the rent, tenants should seek legal advice to understand their rights and obligations.
• Document Everything: Keep records of all communications with the landlord, receipts for repair costs, and any attempts to resolve the issue amicably.

Are Landlords Responsible for Repairs?

Landlords in the UK are generally responsible for maintaining the structural integrity and overall habitability of the rental property. This includes major repairs and ensuring that the property meets health and safety standards.

Common Landlord Responsibilities

• Structural Repairs: Landlords must take care of major repairs, including fixing the roof, walls, windows, and doors.
• Plumbing and Heating: Landlords are responsible for ensuring that the plumbing and heating systems are in working order.
• Electrical Safety: Landlords must maintain the electrical wiring and appliances provided with the property.
• Gas Safety: Landlords are required to carry out annual gas safety checks and maintain any gas installations.
• Damp and Mould: Landlords must address issues related to damp and mould that could affect the tenant’s health and safety.

Can a Landlord Make a Tenant Pay for Repairs?

Landlords cannot generally make tenants pay for repairs that fall under the landlord’s responsibilities. However, there are exceptions where the tenant’s actions or negligence cause the damage.

• Tenant-Caused Damage: If the tenant or their guests cause damage to the property, the landlord can require the tenant to pay for the repairs.
• End of Tenancy: Landlords can deduct repair costs for tenant-caused damages from the tenancy deposit at the end of the lease, provided it is not due to fair wear and tear.

Are Commercial Tenants Responsible for Roof Repairs?

For commercial properties, the responsibility for roof repairs can vary depending on the terms of the lease agreement.

• Lease Terms: The lease should specify who is responsible for different types of repairs, including the roof. Commercial tenants may be responsible for internal repairs while the landlord handles structural repairs.
• Negotiation: Commercial tenants and landlords can negotiate the terms of the lease, including repair responsibilities, before signing the agreement.

Can a Tenant Charge a Landlord for Repairs?

In certain situations, tenants may incur costs for urgent repairs if the landlord fails to address critical issues promptly.

• Urgent Repairs: If the tenant undertakes urgent repairs to prevent further damage or address safety concerns, they may be able to seek reimbursement from the landlord.
• Proof of Cost: Tenants should keep all receipts and documentation related to the repair costs.
• Legal Advice: It’s advisable to seek legal advice to ensure that the tenant’s actions and the claim for reimbursement are justified and in line with tenancy laws.

So Who Pays?

Tenants are typically responsible for minor repairs and upkeep, while landlords must handle major structural repairs and ensure the property is safe and habitable. Clear communication and detailed lease agreements can help prevent disputes and ensure that both parties fulfil their obligations, maintaining a positive landlord-tenant relationship.