As a tenant in the UK, you have the right to live in a home that is safe, secure, and well-maintained.
Unfortunately, not all landlords fulfil their duties, and that’s where problems begin.
Understanding landlord responsibilities for housing repairs is essential. When landlords ignore their obligations, tenants may be entitled to claim housing disrepair compensation.
This guide explains what landlords must fix, what they’re not responsible for, and what steps you can take if they fail to act.
Need help now? Call Instant Assist at 02030 264595 for support.
What Are Landlords Required to Repair?
By law, landlords — including councils and housing associations must keep your rented property in good condition throughout your tenancy.
Here’s what they are responsible for:
1. Structure and Exterior
Landlords must maintain the overall structure of the property, including:
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Walls and ceilings
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Roofs, gutters, and drains
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Windows, doors, and frames
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Stairs, floors, and plasterwork
If there are cracks, leaks, or loose bricks, your landlord must repair them.
2. Heating and Hot Water Systems
Your landlord is responsible for ensuring you have a working:
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Central heating system
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Boiler
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Hot water supply
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Radiators and thermostats
Living without proper heating is a serious breach of landlord responsibilities, especially during winter.
3. Plumbing and Sanitation
This includes maintaining:
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Toilets, sinks, baths, and showers
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Pipes and drains
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Water tanks and supply systems
Leaks or poor drainage can lead to mould, damp, or even structural damage.
4. Electrical Safety
Landlords must:
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Ensure wiring and fuse boxes are safe
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Fix faulty sockets or exposed wiring
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Provide safe lighting and power supplies
Faulty electrics can lead to fire hazards and personal injury, and they’re a valid basis for a housing disrepair claim.
5. Pest Infestation Caused by Disrepair
If your home becomes infested due to poor property maintenance (such as holes in walls or damp attracting pests), your landlord may be liable to fix it.
What Landlords Are Not Responsible For
While landlords have obligations, there are some repairs they are not responsible for, including:
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Damage caused by the tenant (accidental or intentional)
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Minor wear and tear (unless it becomes hazardous)
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Furniture repairs in unfurnished properties
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Issues not reported by the tenant
That’s why it’s important to report disrepair in writing as soon as you notice it.
What Happens If a Landlord Ignores Repairs?
If your landlord fails to act after you report a repair issue, this may be considered housing disrepair.
Here’s what you can do:
1. Send Written Notice
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Email or message your landlord explaining the issue
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Include photos or videos where possible
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Keep copies of everything
2. Give a Reasonable Time to Fix
Landlords must be allowed to inspect and carry out repairs, usually within 14 to 28 days, depending on the severity.
3. Make a Housing Disrepair Claim
If your landlord still fails to act, you can take action. You may be entitled to:
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Repairs enforced by the court
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Compensation for inconvenience, health issues, or damage to belongings
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Partial rent refunds for the affected period
Call Instant Assist at 02030 264595 to start your No Win No Fee claim today.
Please Note: The solicitor we recommend will charge you a fee of 36% (inclusive of VAT) off your compensation. The solicitor may charge a termination fee if you cancel your agreement with them after the cancellation period, please read their Terms and conditions for more information.
How Instant Assist Can Help
At Instant Assist, we help tenants hold landlords accountable when they fail to meet their responsibilities.
We’ll help you:
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Review your landlord’s obligations
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Collect evidence of disrepair
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File a claim on your behalf
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Secure compensation and ensure repairs are made
Call 02030 264595 now or fill out our online form to speak with our experts.
FAQS About Landlord Responsibilities for Repairs
Q1: Can my landlord refuse to make repairs if I owe rent?
No. Landlords cannot ignore repair responsibilities even if you’re behind on rent.
Q2: How long does my landlord have to make repairs?
Usually within 14–28 days after being notified, depending on the issue’s severity.
Q3: What if repairs make the home uninhabitable?
You may be entitled to alternative accommodation and additional compensation.
Q4: Can I stop paying rent if repairs are ignored?
No stopping rent can put you at risk. It’s better to claim proper channels.
Final Words
Understanding landlord responsibilities for housing repairs empowers you to stand up for your rights.
If your landlord fails to fix serious issues that impact your health or safety, you may be entitled to compensation and enforced repairs.
Don’t wait until the problem gets worse.
Call Instant Assist on 02030 264595 for free advice, or start your claim online — we’re here to help 24/7.
