Property Care and Repair

The care and repair of a rented property is often the source of problems between landlords and their tenants.  It is important to be clear about who is responsible for what and what can be done to minimise misunderstandings. 

Landlords are responsible for:

• Fire safety of any provided furniture and furnishings
• Repairs to the structure and exterior of the property, heating and hot water installations, basins, sinks baths and other sanitary installations
• The safety of gas and electrical appliances

Tenants must use contents, fittings and fabric of their home responsibly.

It is always good practice for tenants and landlords to agree an inventory of the dwelling at the beginning of a tenancy.  The most detailed inventories also contain information, and sometimes photographs showing the condition of the property.  This can be used if issues arise concerning tenancy deposits or other charges.

Once a tenancy agreement has been signed the tenant has the right to enjoy their home.  This means that any work to repair and improve their home must be done at their convenience.  Landlords, their agents and people working for them should arrange with tenants when repairs are to be carried out and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption. 

There are a range of grants, tax reliefs and other incentives to enable landlords and tenants to improve a dwelling.  Many of these schemes are designed to improve the energy efficiency of the dwelling.  This will reduce running costs for tenants and maintenance costs for landlords.

Tenants should never withold rent to try and force a landlord to carry out necessary repairs.  This may put the tenant at risk of eviction.  Advice should be sought from an organisation like CAB to ensure that the repairs are the landlords reponsibility and the correct legal steps are taken, if necessary.

A landlord must provide accommodation which gives a safe and healthy environment for the tenants.  Richmondshire District Council's Environmental Health officers can investigate any property problems,  which may cause unacceptable risks to tenants’ health.  If risks like,excess cold, excess damp or dangerous fittings are found the Council can ensure that the landlord makes necessary repairs or improvements.  More information about this process is on the Investigation page.  The Dampness and Mould Growth pages give advice about identifying and dealing with these common problems. 

This page will be developed to provide private sector landlords and tenants in Richmondshire with useful information.  If you have any suggestions for content please contact us at landlords@richmondshire.gov.uk.

 

 Print page Last updated: 25 June 2008