Am I Required to Make Repairs?

Yes. The landlord is legally required to maintain the property to ensure an acceptable standard for habitation. This includes maintaining the building’s structure and exterior; the water, gas and electricity installations; and fittings like toilets and showers.

You are legally required to take steps to ensure the premises are safe. This includes ensuring the safety of electrical and gas appliances and any furniture in the property. If necessary you must repair or replace them.

You must carry out the repair obligations that were agreed in the tenancy agreement. In the past, there was an ‘annual wear and tear allowance’ in terms of expenses you are able to claim, which amounted to 10% of the net rent. Now, the rules have changed so that you can claim back the actual costs incurred when improving or maintaining the property, whether it is furnished, part-furnished or unfurnished.