7. Is my landlord responsible for all repairs?
This content applies to Scotland only.
Housing laws vary between Scotland and England. Get advice relating to England
Your tenancy agreement should say which repairs your landlord is responsible for, and which are up to you (these should usually only be minor repairs). However, there are some repairs that your landlord is responsible for by law, no matter what your tenancy agreement says, so check your rights to make sure your landlord isn't ducking out of their responsibilities.
Whatever the problem, report it to your landlord as soon as possible (ideally in writing) and don't use equipment that might be unsafe.
If your landlord refuses to carry out repair work, you have several options. You can:
- carry out the repairs yourself then send the bill to your landlord
- withhold your rent until the landlord has made the repairs
- report your landlord to the private rented housing panel
- complain to the council, who can make your landlord carry out the repairs.
CAUTION: Your landlord may try to evict you, rather than do the work that's needed. If you have limited tenancy rights, this may be quite easy, although the landlord still has to follow the correct procedure. Think carefully and talk to an adviser before you take action. If the problem is minor, you may prefer to live with it rather than risk losing your home.
