Emergency repairs in rented property

Blog

Emergency repairs in rented property

by Housing Disrepair Advice 0 Comment
Emergency repairs in rented property

Emergency repairs in rented property

Emergency repairs in rented property: Burst pipes spewing water everywhere, a gaping hole in the roof after a storm, or a complete electrical blackout – these aren’t scenes from a disaster movie, but potential emergencies you might face as a tenant in the UK. While minor issues can wait, emergency repairs require swift action to prevent further damage and ensure your safety. But what exactly counts as an emergency, and who’s responsible for fixing it? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

What Qualifies as an Emergency Repair in a Rental Property?

An emergency repair addresses a critical issue that poses a serious risk to your health, safety, or the property itself. Here are some common examples:

  • Water leaks: A burst pipe flooding your kitchen or a leaky roof threatening a mould outbreak.
  • Electrical hazards: Exposed wiring, sparking sockets, or a complete power outage.
  • Structural issues: A damaged roof after a storm, a cracked window letting in cold air, or a faulty lock compromising security.
  • Gas leaks: A suspected gas leak is a life-threatening situation and requires immediate action.

Remember: If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate the property immediately and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.

Who’s Responsible for Emergency Repairs?

The responsibility for emergency repairs in your UK rental usually falls on your landlord’s shoulders. Your tenancy agreement should outline specific details, but generally, landlords are responsible for ensuring the property is safe and fit to live in.

Taking Action: What to Do During an Emergency Repair

  • Act Quickly: Don’t wait for the situation to worsen. The faster you address the issue, the less damage it will cause.
  • Contact Your Landlord Immediately: Inform them of the emergency repair by phone, text message, or email. Keep a record of the date and time you contacted them.
  • Make the Property Safe (if possible): If it’s safe to do so, take steps to minimize further damage. For example, turn off the water supply in case of a leak or isolate the electrical circuit if there’s a power issue.
  • Document Everything: Take photos and videos of the emergency repair to have evidence of the damage.
  • Keep Receipts: If you need to take temporary measures to ensure your safety, like staying in a hotel due to a leak, keep receipts for any necessary expenses.

Remember: While it’s your landlord’s responsibility to fix the emergency repair, there might be situations where you, as the tenant, might be held liable for the cost. This could be if the damage was caused by your own negligence or a guest’s actions.

Here are some resources for further guidance: