Are you confused about maintenance issues & repairs?
Most renters in Durham are aware that their landlord is responsible for carrying out repairs to their property. However, there is often some confusion surrounding maintenance issues and smaller repairs.
So, what can a tenant ask their landlord to fix? Our expert team here at PIIM Property has some helpful advice to ensure that you understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.
What is a Landlord responsible for?
Your landlord has a responsibility to ensure the property is suitable to live in. That means they need to tackle issues like:
- Plumbing maintenance
- Keeping the heating working
- Repairing any faulty appliances
- Removing potential hazards
- Ensuring the property’s structure remains sound
Nevertheless, rental property repairs can cause tension between tenants and landlords. Therefore, it’s essential for tenants to know what constitutes a reasonable repair request and when to make one.
What is a reasonable repair request?
When you pay rent to your landlord, that amount also covers maintenance to the property. Therefore, it’s your right to request that your landlord carry out necessary maintenance and repairs on the property. That doesn’t mean that you have the right to request the installation of an expensive new appliance or a major change that isn’t essential, but it does mean that it’s reasonable to ask for repairs to be carried out to the appliances and amenities you already have in place.
In fact, it’s important to report the need for repairs to be carried out as quickly as possible, since issues may deteriorate and cost more to fix if they’re neglected in the long term. It’s crucial to recognise, though, that you have to allow your landlord sufficient time to carry out the necessary repairs, and you may wish to try helping your landlord out by getting some quotes from contractors or arranging an inspection on their behalf.
The difference between careless and natural damage
If something breaks in your rental property, it’s vital to be aware of who has responsibility for rectifying the problem. Tenants aren’t liable for any damage to the landlord’s property, furniture or appliances that are due to wear and tear, but they are responsible for any damage caused carelessly or intentionally.
For example, if the oven heating element deteriorates gradually over time due to normal cooking, the responsibility for fixing it lies with the landlord. On the other hand, if you were using the oven element for heating your kitchen, and this caused it to fail, it would be your responsibility to replace the element as you would have been using the appliance inappropriately.
What are my responsibilities as a Tenant?
Although maintenance issues and repairs are your landlord’s responsibility, you still have some obligations. You must monitor the property to make sure that everything remains in working condition. Let your landlord know about any potential problems that may arise. For example, if your electrics randomly go off, it’s highly likely that there’s a damaged connection which could cause a safety hazard.
If you notice an issue like this, you should report it immediately. You must also be prepared to allow the landlord or contractors access so that maintenance can be carried out. Whilst you legally have the right to refuse your landlord entry to the property without notice, preventing them from carrying out essential repairs, you may become liable for paying for any damage occurred as a result.
If you’re looking for a property to rent in Durham, give the PIIM Property Management team a call today on 01207 772033. As specialists in the Durham rental market, we’re your top choice to help you find the ideal place to live.
