Both you and the landlord have certain responsibilities while you live in the property.
The Landlord
Contact with the landlord
You will need to have your landlord's address and phone number so that you can get in touch with them easily. For example:
- To let them know of any problems
- To let them know if you want to leave
You have a legal right to know your landlord's name and address. If you don't have these details ask the person who collects the rent. They must give you a contact address in England or Wales.
Visits from the landlord
Your landlord does not have the right to come into the property whenever they like. They should let you know in advance when they are going to call, preferably 24 hours in advance and in writing.
The landlord does not have the right to use the keys to the property to let themselves in whenever they want. If the landlord behaves in such a way that you cannot live peacefully in your home, this might be harassment and they could be breaking the law.
Repairs
The basics
Sorting out repairs to a property is one of the most common sources of problems between landlords and tenants. It is important that you know from the start of the tenancy what repairs your landlord is responsible for and how you should properly report them.
The landlord's responsibilities
It is the landlord's responsibility to do basic repairs to the building. This includes repairs to the structure and exterior of the building, for example, a leaking roof, badly fitting or rotten windows or doors, rising damp etc.
If a repair needs doing, tell the landlord as soon as possible. Do this in writing and keep a copy as proof that the landlord knows there is a problem. If you don't let the landlord know a repair needs doing, they usually have no responsibility to do anything about it. Make sure that you have a number to contact your landlord in an emergency, for example, if there is a burst pipe.
If the landlord does not do the repairs, there are various things you can do to sort the situation out. Remember, some repairs are your responsibility as the tenant, so be sure to know your rights. Check out our section on repairs for more information about Landlord AND tenant obligations to repair.
Problems with the neighbours
Some tenants have problems with their neighbours, for example:
- Noise
- Disturbance early in the morning or at night
- A clash of different lifestyles
Don't despair, there are things you can do such as complaining to the landlord or contacting Environmental Health. Check out our section on problems with neighbours.
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Information Provider:
Manchester Advice
Date Reviewed:
28 October 2008
This information is for guidance only and is not an authoritative statement on the law. Please read our Terms and Conditions.
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