What can I do if my property is in disrepair?
Landlords (private, local authority and housing association) are responsible for most repairs and must make sure your home is fit to live in. However as a tenant you are expected to keep the property in clean and in a reasonable state, you are also responsible for minor maintenance such small appliance checks and changing bulbs and smoke alarm batteries.
If you have need repairs doing contact your landlord directly as soon as possible to report the problem and come to an agreement on a way forward. Keep a log of who you spoke to and when you spoke to them and take photographs the problem area, so you have a record.
If you have contacted them a few times and they fail to act your next steps depend on whether you are renting privately or through a social landlord.
Private: Contact the letting agent and raise your dispute through their redress scheme or contact your councils private renting team. As a last resort you can take legal action.
Social: You can usually report council/local authority and housing association issues online.
Further information on your rights and how to make or escalate a complaint, as well as the possibility of revenge eviction please visit the Shelter and Citizens Advice websites. If you live Northern Ireland visit the Housing Advice NI website, in Scotland visit the Scotland - Shelter website, in Wales visit the Public Service Ombudsman Wales website.
