Maintenance and repair guide for Landlords

Overview

Proper maintenance and timely repairs are essential parts of being a responsible landlord. Not only do they ensure the safety and comfort of tenants, but they also protect the property from long-term damage. As a landlord, you are legally obligated to maintain certain standards and handle repairs promptly. Thornley Groves would recommend using our fully managed service as we can assist you if any of these issues arise and work needs completing. 

Here’s a guide to help you meet your maintenance obligations:

Legal Obligations for Timely Repairs

As a landlord, your responsibility is to ensure the property is safe, habitable, and in good working order. Some of the key legal repair obligations include:

• Heating and Hot Water: Landlords must ensure that the heating system/hot water supply are working correctly. If the boiler or heating breaks down, it must be repaired or replaced promptly.

• Plumbing: Any issues with water supply, drainage, or broken plumbing must be sorted quickly. Leaky pipes, blocked drains, or faulty toilets fall under this category.

• Electricity and Gas: Electrical wiring, outlets, and gas appliances must be maintained to safety standards. Any breakdowns or hazards must be fixed immediately.

• Structural Repairs: You are responsible for ensuring the building structure, including walls, roof, and windows, is sound and secure.

• Appliance Repairs: If you supply any white goods (e.g washing machine, fridge etc.), you are responsible for their upkeep and repair unless the tenant caused the damage.

• Pest Control: If a pest infestation arises from the building's condition (e.g. damp), landlords must arrange pest control.

Failure to make necessary repairs in a timely manner can result in legal action from tenants, rent reductions, or fines.

Communicating with Tenants about Repairs

If you decide not to go through with a managed service, it is crucial to have transparent communication with your tenant. If they report a maintenance issue you need to be clear about receiving the report and resolving it in a timely manner.

• Regular Inspections: With proper notice, schedule routine property inspections (typically every 3-6 months) to identify issues that tenants may not have reported (minor issues). Always give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering the property, as required by law.

• Keep Tenants Updated: If a repair takes longer than expected, keep tenants informed. Transparency helps maintain trust and reduces frustration.

• Use Reliable Contractors: Use reliable contractors who are prompt, professional, and skilled. This helps ensure that work is completed to a high standard.

• Emergency Repairs: Provide tenants with emergency contact numbers for urgent situations that occur outside normal working hours.