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General repairs

Under section 11 of the Landlord and Tenants Act 1985 you have an obligation to ensure that your property is kept in a good state of repair which includes:

• The structure and exterior of the property
• Heating and hot water
• The supply of gas, water and electric
• The baths, sinks, toilets etc.

However, you are not obliged to carry out any repairs until your tenant has informed you that they are needed.

Once the tenant has reported a problem you should contact them giving them 24 hours notice that you need to enter the property to check it and then for the work to be carried out.  If the tenant does not allow you entry you do not need to carry out the repairs. 

Wear and Tear

Wear is damage that naturally and inevitably occurs as a result of normal use or aging. 

The Landlords pay for any necessary repairs that are caused by fair wear but not tear.  For instance, if a drain needs unblocking the landlord will meet all the costs involved but if it is determined that the tenant's actions caused the blockage (e.g. throwing sanitary towels down the toilet), then at least a contribution towards the full costs will be expected from the tenant.

Gas Appliances

You must have gas appliances tested annually and keep the Landlords Certificate safe.  All gas should be dealt with by a Corgi registered fitter.

Electrical Repairs

Electricity testing is being brought in soon and you will have to have a safety certificate on your property.  It will last for 5 years so you do not have to have it retested annually, like the gas.  All electricity should be dealt with by a qualified electrician.

Energy Performance Certificates

From October 2008 all rental properties in England and Wales will be required to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) prepared by an accredited Energy Assessor. See energy Saving Section for details and where to find out about grants.

Building Insurance

When you rent out a property you really need to have the correct buildings insurance to protect your investment.  Your standard buildings cover is not enough you need a Landlords Insurance.  This does not necessarily mean that it will cost you more, you just need the correct cover. Otherwise if you should make a claim on a domestic policy they may not pay out if you have not told them the  property is let.