What property maintenance and repairs are you responsible for as a landlord?

Being a landlord in the UK is more than just a lucrative step forward. It’s a moral as well as a legal obligation, with those letting their properties privately, having to tick a number of boxes to ensure a responsible, legally compliant arrangement. A well-maintained property is also the secret to keeping your buy-to-let tenanted.

By law, landlords throughout the UK must ensure the housing they rent out to tenants is adequate and safe. There are several pieces of legislation setting the standards for landlord-tenant relationships, especially when it comes to property safety.

The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) under the Housing Act 2004, and more recently, the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 all make for essential reading. But, what property maintenance and repairs are landlords responsible for to guarantee the safety and comfort of their tenants?

Structural and exterior repairs

First impressions certainly count, and the exterior that impressed would-be tenants so much needs a little TLC to stay in tip top condition – even after that move-in date! As a result, landlords have to maintain several key areas to keep the structure and external façade of the property intact.

The structure of the property – i.e. its walls, roof and foundations – falls under your remit when it comes to maintenance and repairs, along with any external parts like the gutters, drains and pipework. Any windows and external doors should also be maintained regularly on behalf of your tenants.

Heating and plumbing

Every rental property should at the most basic level provide a warm and hospitable environment for tenants to call their own. A fact that makes access to heating and hot water pretty important. With this in mind, every landlord is charged with maintaining and repairing their rental’s water supply, pipework, drainage and sewage systems.

Baths, sinks, toilets and other sanitary installations as well as boilers, radiators and additional heating equipment all need your attention to ensure a functioning and safe home setup.

Electrical and gas safety

Now this is a biggie! Both gas and electrical safety certificates are legally required, whatever your property size or location. We’ll let Bluestone Properties explain why:

“As a landlord, gas and electrical safety should never be overlooked. Compliance with the necessary regulations is essential to ensure the safety of your tenants and protect your property from potential hazards. By ensuring you have up-to-date Gas Safety and Electrical Safety Certificates, you’ll be doing your part to create a safe living environment while avoiding any legal or financial repercussions.”

Keep your electrical and gas systems safe throughout the tenancy with the necessary inspection and testing. Electrical installations need to be checked by a qualified professional at least every five years, while gas safety checks should be completed by a Gas Safe registered engineer annually. Don’t forget fire safety either!

Ventilation and damp

Another important part of a landlord’s maintenance regime is keeping their properties free from damp, mould and pests. With regular maintenance and repairs, your tenants get to breathe easy and avoid the ventilation issues that could potentially be fatal. It’s the reason why Awaab’s Law and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 were introduced.

Poor insulation and leaks are common culprits of damp, mould and ventilation problems, but they don’t have to put your tenants at risk. Fix structural causes of damp and mould, and make the changes that ensure proper ventilation (especially in kitchens and bathrooms) for the best results for your tenants and your property.

Are you at the very beginning of your buy-to-let journey or looking to expand your portfolio? We can help lay the foundation. Contact us today to discuss your next steps and buy-to-let mortgage options.