Landlords' Responsibility for Window Repairs in England

Many renters in England experience problems with windows, such as draughts, broken panes, or faulty locks. Understanding your rights can help you get problems fixed quickly and ensure your home is safe and comfortable. This article explains whether landlords in England must repair windows, which laws cover these repairs, and what steps you can take if your landlord does not act.

Do Landlords Have to Fix Windows?

Yes, in most cases, landlords in England are legally responsible for repairing windows in rented homes. This duty is set out mainly in the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11^[1], which applies to assured shorthold tenancies and most other private tenancies.

• Structural repairs: Landlords must keep the structure and exterior of the property in repair—which includes windows, window frames, and exterior doors.
• Protection from hazards: Windows must also be safe and secure under the Housing Act 2004^[2] and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018. Broken windows might present hazards like damp, draughts, or security issues—landlords must tackle these to ensure the home is fit to live in.
• Emergency repairs: If a window is damaged so badly it causes an immediate risk to health or safety (e.g., smashed glass), the landlord is usually responsible for urgent repairs.

However, tenants are generally responsible for fixing any damage caused by their own actions, such as breaking a window pane accidentally.

How to Request Window Repairs from Your Landlord

If your window is broken, draughty, won’t open or close, or is letting in water, let your landlord or letting agent know as soon as possible.

• Contact them in writing (email or letter) and clearly describe the issue.
• Include the date and keep a copy of your message.
• Request a reasonable timescale for repairs. Urgent issues (like shattered glass or security risks) should be dealt with quickly—usually within 24 hours.

If your landlord doesn’t act, you have the right to take further steps, as outlined below.

Official Forms for Reporting Disrepair

• Form N11M – Application for Housing Disrepair (England):
  If a private landlord fails to carry out repairs after notice, you can use Form N11M to make a claim at the county court. This can cover fixing windows that are not being repaired.
  When to use: If written requests have been ignored and you want compensation or for the repairs to be completed.
  Form N11M (Defence and Counterclaim in Housing Disrepair Proceedings)
• HHSRS Housing Complaints to Your Council:
  If your landlord ignores a repair (such as broken windows), you can contact your local council’s Environmental Health team. Councils investigate under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
  When to use: If you feel the disrepair is affecting your health or safety and your landlord still does not act.
  Report to your local council

For most renters, starting by formally writing to your landlord is best. If there’s no response, contact your council or consider court action as above.

Which Tribunal Handles Housing Disputes?

Disputes between renters and landlords—such as ongoing unrepaired windows—may sometimes be handled by the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber – Residential Property) in England, particularly when there are disputes about standards or rent repayment orders. Some matters (like enforcing repair obligations or claiming compensation) may need to go through the county court.

Legislation Protecting Renters

The main laws covering window repairs in England are:

• Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (Section 11) – Sets the landlord’s duty for repairs
• Housing Act 2004 – Covers property standards/hazards
• Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 – Requires rented homes to be safe and healthy

These laws make it clear: landlords must repair and maintain windows unless the tenant caused the damage.

FAQ: Window Repairs in England

1. Can I withhold rent if my landlord won’t fix a broken window?
   Generally, renters should not withhold rent. Instead, report the disrepair to your landlord, and if unresolved, contact your local council for help. Withholding rent can lead to eviction.
2. How quickly does my landlord have to repair a broken window?
   Urgent repairs—such as broken glass affecting safety or security—should be addressed within 24-48 hours. Less urgent window repairs should be completed within a reasonable time, normally within 2–4 weeks.
3. Who pays for window repairs if the damage was accidental?
   If the tenant caused accidental damage, the landlord may repair the window but could ask the tenant to pay for the cost.
4. Can my council force my landlord to fix a window?
   Yes. Councils can inspect and, if needed, serve a notice requiring the landlord to fix the problem under housing standards laws.
5. What evidence should I keep when reporting window disrepair?
   Keep dated copies of emails or letters, photographs of the damage, and any responses from your landlord or agent.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Your rights and repairs guidance – GOV.UK
• Repairs in rented housing (Shelter England)
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for England
• Citizens Advice: Housing disrepair help
• Contact your local council’s Environmental Health team for urgent repair enforcement

1. Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11 – View full legislation
2. Housing Act 2004 – View housing standards law
3. Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 – Read details