REPAIRS/MAINTENANCE & INSURANCE
INFORMATION FOR TENANTS & LANDLORDS
FOR RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES
Ensuring the integrity and functionality of your residential property is a top priority. As a landlord, you have the responsibility to address and manage repairs promptly. Here’s an overview of the repair process:
The Landlord is required to maintain the structure & exterior of the property and must also:
- Fit smoke alarms on every floor
- Fit carbon monoxide alarms in rooms using solid fuels
- Deal with any problems with water, electricity & gas supply
- Maintain any appliances & furniture they have installed
- Carry out most repairs if something is not working
- Arrange an annual gas safety check
- Insure the building to cover the costs of any damage from flood or fire
- Provide an electrical condition report at the commencement of the tenancy
Tenant Reporting
Tenants are encouraged to report any issues or needed repairs promptly. Open communication allows for a swift resolution to maintain the property's condition.
Landlord Responsibilities
Landlords are obliged to maintain the structure and exterior of the property. This includes addressing problems with water, electricity, and gas supply, as well as handling most repairs when something is not working.
Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Landlords are required to fit smoke alarms on every floor and carbon monoxide alarms in rooms using solid fuels. Regular checks and prompt replacement of batteries contribute to tenant safety.
Appliance and Furniture Maintenance
Landlords are responsible for maintaining any appliances and furniture they have installed in the property. Regular checks and timely repairs ensure the safety and functionality of these items.
Annual Gas Safety Check
Landlords must arrange an annual gas safety check by a qualified professional. This ensures that gas appliances and installations are in good working order, prioritizing the safety of occupants.
Insurance Coverage
Landlords are encouraged to have adequate insurance coverage for the building. This coverage should include protection against potential damage from flood or fire, offering financial security in unforeseen circumstances.
Electrical Condition Report
At the commencement of the tenancy, landlords are required to provide an electrical condition report. This report ensures the electrical systems in the property meet safety standards.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES
In general terms, commercial properties are let on either a Full Repairing & Insuring Basis (FRI) or an Internal Repairing & Insuring Basis (IR&I), the basis of which is fundamentally different to that of residential properties. Furthermore, the specific repairing obligations placed on the tenant and/or landlord can only be determined by reference to the physical lease which often differs in each case.
An FRI lease would in general terms mean the tenant is responsible for the day to day maintenance, upkeep & repair of the building they occupy whether this be internal or external, whether this be partially recoverable by way of a service charge or not. They will also be responsible for the payment of buildings insurance which is often recovered by the landlord as additional insurance rent, but generally they must insure contents themselves & more than not plate glass within the building.
Specific legal advice should however be sought in each case if specific obligations are in doubt.
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