Landlord - tenants wanting to hire tradespeople
Around 20% of UK homes are rented out, with the proportion of rented properties rising all of the time. Part of the attraction of renting is having someone else taking responsibility for making repairs to the property. However, if you want some decorating done, or want to get a boiler repaired as quickly as possible, do you have the right to organise your own tradespeople?
Minor repair issues
Most tenancies have clauses in them about tenants putting right any damage which they cause to the property. That means that if you – or the kids – accidentally break a window or pull a cupboard door from its hinges, then you have to get it fixed. In these situations, you are free to choose to do the work yourself, or get a tradesman of your choice in to do it for you.
Decorating and other repairs
Whether your landlord is happy for you to organise your own tradespeople for other repairs and maintenance will be down to the type of relationship you have. Some landlords have large rental portfolios, and a team of trusted workmen who they use all the time. In other cases, landlords might be glad that their tenant is offering to take on the job of finding a workman and organising the repairs. Don’t assume that your landlord will be happy with either scenario. Landlords might ask you to get two or three quotes for a larger job, to ensure that they are getting the best value for money. They may also be happy for you to pay the workman yourself, and deduct the money from your rent. Whatever you agree, try to get it in writing in case there is a dispute at a later date.
If there is an issue which needs fixed, let your landlord know right away. Make the offer to find someone to do the job yourself, but they are well within their rights to refuse. When it comes to maintenance like redecorating, always ask before stripping wallpaper and buying paint. Many landlords are happy to let you decorate, as long as your taste is not too outrageous.
Serious repair issues
If something goes seriously wrong with your property, let your landlord know as soon as possible. Most good landlords will not leave tenants with a leaking roof or broken boiler for any longer than is necessary. If however your landlord refuses to deal with serious repair issues, then in some cases tenants have the right to take things into their own hands. Tenants have to give their landlord a chance to hire someone themselves. If nothing happens, put together a letter giving the landlord a certain period of time (usually 2 weeks) to organise repairs. Also state that if nothing happens, the tenant will organise repairs and deduct money from rent. Doing this can really damage your relationship with your landlord so should really be the last resort. Housing charities such as Shelter are the best places to get impartial advice on your legal position when dealing with tricky landlords.
