REPAIRS
This leaflet aims to make you aware of how to take action and enforce your rights as a tenant.
The landlord has responsibility for:
- the structure and exterior (incl. drains, gutters and external pipes).
- the installations for the supply of gas, water and electricity and for sanitation.
- installations for main heating and hot water supply.
- if the Landlord provides a service or item, they should ensure it works (e.g. a washing machine) and is safe to use.
As a tenant, you are expected to:
- Take care of the property
- Ensure the fixtures and fittings are not damaged
- Carry out minor repairs such as replacing light bulbs
- Pay the utility bills unless it says in your tenancy agreement that the landlord is doing this
Getting repairs done
You should inform your Landlord in writing of any problems and keep a dated copy of your letter. Keep a note of any visits or telephone calls.
Once you have informed your Landlord of a problem:
- allow the Landlord time to carry out the work
- ask for a date when the work will be finished
- allow the Landlord access to the property.
You should allow up to:
- 21 days for non urgent repairs (e.g. broken gutter)
- 1-2 days for urgent repairs (e.g. broken toilet).
It would be useful to:
- take photos of the disrepair
- get independent witnesses to write a statement about the disrepair, sign it and date it
- keep receipts for damaged property, excessive heating etc
- obtain medical evidence from a GP/ counsellor/ social worker that the disrepair aggravated your physical/ mental health.
If the Landlord won't act
- Do not stop paying your rent. This is a very risky tactic as, unless a set procedure is followed, you could face court action for rent arrears. You do not have a legal right to withhold your rent because of disrepair.
- Do not do the repairs yourself and try to claim the money back.
Contact your local council
The council has extensive powers under the Housing Act 2004, which can force a Landlord to carry out repairs. They can serve a notice on the Landlord which:
- specifies the work to be done
- gives a deadline for the completion of the work.
If the Landlord fails to comply, the council can apply for a court order and a fine for the Landlord. If the work is still not carried out, the council may do the repairs and then claim the costs back.
You could be entitled to apply for compensation for disrepair through the small claims court. Seek advice before doing this.
Please contact the Students’ Union for further help.
Louise.Tadiar@beds.ac.uk
Tel:01582 743264
Luton Borough Council
01582 546000
Bedford Borough Council
01234 221 797
South Beds District Council
01582 472222
Mid Beds District Council
01462 611200
