Tenant Repair Rights: Ensuring Safe Homes in England

Every renter in England deserves a home that is safe, secure, and in good repair. Understanding your rights as a tenant when it comes to repairs can help you maintain a healthy living environment and resolve issues effectively. This guide explains what you are legally entitled to, how to request repairs, and the options available if problems are not fixed.

Your Right to Repairs in England

Landlords in England are legally required to keep their properties in good condition. The main law covering this is the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985^[1]. This law outlines who is responsible for repairs and what renters can expect.

• Structural repairs: Landlords must fix issues with the building's structure and exterior (e.g., roof leaks, broken windows, damp).
• Services: Landlords are responsible for heating, hot water, sanitation equipment (toilets, sinks), and gas, electricity, and water supplies.
• Health and safety: Properties must be free from hazards under the Housing Act 2004^[2].

It's a good idea to know what repairs you're responsible for. Tenants usually must look after minor things (like changing lightbulbs) and keep the property clean and undamaged.

How to Report Repairs to Your Landlord

Reporting repair issues promptly and clearly is important. Always put your request in writing so there’s a record.

• Describe the repair needed, with dates and details.
• Send your request by email or letter, and keep a copy.
• If there is a managing agent, copy them in.

If your landlord does not respond, give them a reasonable amount of time (usually 14 days unless it's urgent, like loss of heating in winter).

Official Forms: Housing Health and Safety Inspection

If repairs are not completed, you may contact your local council. The council’s Environmental Health team can carry out a Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) inspection to assess hazards. There is no single national form—each council usually provides its own online reporting method or form for tenants to request inspections.

• When to use: If your landlord refuses to do urgent repairs or leaves the property unsafe.
• How to use: Visit your local council’s website, search for 'private rented housing repairs', and complete the report/inspection request form.
• Example: If you’ve told your landlord about dangerous mould but nothing is done, you can request a council inspection.

If Repairs Still Aren't Done: Escalation Options

Should the landlord still not act, you have several options:

• Ask the council to serve an Improvement Notice on the landlord, compelling them to fix hazards.
• Apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for certain types of orders (e.g., rent repayment).
• Consider "rent repayment orders" if your landlord commits serious breaches.

The First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) is the official body in England that handles many housing disputes between landlords and tenants.

What If Disrepair Causes Health Problems or Losses?

If a repair problem damages your belongings or puts your health at risk, you may be able to:

• Contact the council Environmental Health for urgent action.
• Claim compensation through the small claims court if reasonable efforts to resolve issues have failed.

Your Responsibilities as a Tenant

Tenants should:

• Report repairs promptly and allow reasonable access for work to be done.
• Keep the home reasonably clean and avoid causing damage.
• Keep up with rent and utility payments, even during repair issues.

Being clear and proactive helps resolve repair disputes faster and keeps you protected under the law.

Frequently Asked Questions: Tenant Repair Rights in England

1. What repairs are landlords responsible for in England?
   Landlords must fix structural problems, heating, hot water, sanitation, and anything affecting the building’s safety, as stated in the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.
2. How do I request repairs from my landlord?
   Put your request in writing, describe the problem clearly, include dates, and keep a copy. This creates a record for future reference.
3. Can I report my landlord to the council for not doing repairs?
   Yes. Use your local council’s repairs service to request an inspection by Environmental Health.
4. Which official tribunal deals with repair disputes?
   The First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) handles relevant disputes, such as rent repayment orders and property standards cases.
5. Do I have to let my landlord in to fix repairs?
   Yes. You must allow "reasonable access" for urgent or necessary repairs. Your landlord usually needs to give at least 24 hours’ notice unless it’s an emergency.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Landlords must keep rented properties in good condition and promptly complete repairs.
• Tenants should report problems early, document requests, and allow reasonable access for repairs.
• If a landlord does not act, renters can involve the local council and, if needed, escalate disputes to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).

By understanding your rights and how to take practical action, you can help make sure your home stays safe, healthy, and comfortable.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• GOV.UK: Repairs in rented housing – official guidance on rights and responsibilities
• Find your local council’s housing team – to report disrepair and request inspections
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – for housing disputes in England
• Shelter England: Repairs – practical advice and guidance

---

1. [1] Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 – full legislation text
2. [2] Housing Act 2004 – full legislation text

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent, Deposits & Increases Tenancy Types & Agreements Moving In & Out Procedures Repairs, Maintenance & Housing Standards Eviction Notices & Repossessions Shared Housing, HMOs & Lodgers Discrimination, Harassment & Accessibility Utilities, Bills & Council Tax Affordable Housing, Social Housing & Benefits Dispute Resolution & Housing Tribunals Health, Safety & Fire Regulations Privacy, Landlord Entry & Surveillance Unusual & Special Tenancy Situations Renters’ Insurance & Liability Homelessness Support & Post-Eviction Help Landlord Duties, Licensing & Penalties Housing Law, Legal Updates & Case Studies Mental Health, Disability & Vulnerable Renters’ Rights Rent Repayment Orders & Compensation