Getting repairs done

Tenant rights and responsibilities

Your rights and responsibilities

As a tenant, you have the right to live undisturbed in a property that’s safe and in a good state of repair. You should also know who your landlord is, and be protected from unfair eviction and unfair rent.

In return you have certain responsibilities. You must:

  • give your landlord access to the property to inspect it or carry out repairs. Your landlord has to give you at least 24 hours’ notice and visit at a reasonable time of day, unless it’s an emergency and they need immediate access.
  • take good care of the property, for example turn off the water at the mains if you’re away in cold weather
  • pay the agreed rent, even if repairs are needed or you’re in dispute with your landlord
  • pay other charges as agreed with the landlord, for example Council Tax or utility bills
  • repair or pay for any damage caused by you, your family or friends
  • only sublet a property if the tenancy agreement or your landlord allows it

The government has produced a useful guide to landlord and tenant rights and responsibilities

Reporting disrepair

When a rented property falls into disrepair, the first person you should contact is the landlord or agent responsible for maintenance. If you have reported disrepair issues to your landlord but you are not satisfied with the progress,you can report issues to us.