Both tenants and landlords have their fair share of maintenance responsibilities. However, understanding what they are and which are yours is more important than you might think. This is important because if there is a maintenance issue that is not your responsibility, such as repairing bath or shower seals, it needs to be reported to Northwood Wirral or your landlord immediately. If you fail to do this you risk being held liable for the cost of the possible damage caused.
So, what are your responsibilities?
Tenants are responsible for minor maintenance issues and day-to-day jobs, whereas landlords are responsible for the more major issues regarding the property. Sometimes you may find that tenant’s and landlord’s responsibilities collide such as, unblocking drains, internal damp, locks and chimneys. Here are your responsibilities in more detail:
Tenants: replacing lightbulbs, tightening screws, replacing consumables, general gardening (weeding, clearing leaves, mowing the lawn, etc.), light pruning, cleaning patios or paving, bleeding radiators, re-igniting the boiler, replacing fuses, appliance upkeep, unblocking drains, tightening clasp fittings, cleaning showers and shower heads, preserving bath and shower seals, internal damp, locks and chimneys.
Landlords: replacing taps, replacing tap washers, removal of moss and leaves from gutters, radiator leaks, boiler servicing and maintenance, appliance repairs, house alarm servicing, electrical repairs or checks, unblocking drains, replacing showerheads, clasps or hoses, shower plumbing and electrical repairs, repairs to bath and shower seals, internal and external damp, locks and chimneys.
Basic upkeep!
Basic cleanliness and hygiene of the property is expected from tenants. The golden rule is if you wouldn’t want someone to treat your property badly then don’t do it to someone else’s! Whilst living in the property you should be treating it with respect. Not only does this make a nicer home for you to live in but if a lack of cleanliness gets out of hand it could manifest into complications later on.
Repairs!
Landlords are the main port of call when something needs repairing as it often falls on their side of the responsibilities. However, if you break something or use something to the point that it breaks it falls to you as a tenant to repair or replace it. If you decide to use your own contractor to repair or replace something it is vital to check they have all the correct qualifications to do the job and keep all receipts as we may need to see these later down the line.
Pest control!
Pest control can be a tricky subject when determining who is responsible for dealing with the issue. Something to remember is if the infestation was present before you moved in or if the infestation is caused by a flaw with the property, then the responsibility lies with the landlord to sort out. Whereas, if the infestation is caused as a result of the way you conduct your life in the property then the responsibility will always fall on your shoulders. For example, living in unhygienic conditions where mice can be attracted to your property.
– Written by Lauren Jones.
