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Landlord and tenant obligations
Whether you are a landlord or tenant, it is vital that you are aware of your legal rights and obligations. The law protects both parties and does not permit you to "take the law into your own hands", irrespective of circumstances.
It is important that landlords fully understand their obligations. The Disability Discrimination Act, Sex Discrimination Act and Race Relations Act also apply to anyone letting, selling or managing premises. If you are in doubt about anything seek legal advice.
What is the landlord responsible for?
repairs to the structure and exterior of the property, heating and hot water installations, basins, sinks, baths and other sanitary installations
the safety of gas and electrical appliances
the fire safety of furniture and furnishings provided under the tenancy
ensuring that the property is fit for habitation
repairing and keeping in working order the room and water heating equipment
the common areas in multi-occupancy dwellings
What is the tenant responsible for?
paying the rent as agreed and taking proper care of the property
bills for gas electricity, telephone, etc if this was agreed with your landlord
in most cases, paying the council tax, water and sewerage charges
More useful links
Landlord responsibilities and rights guide
http://www.communities.gov.uk/public...assuredassured
Tenant responsibilities and rights guide
http://www.communities.gov.uk/public...ssuredassured2
Housing repair obligations: good practice guidance
http://www.communities.gov.uk/archiv...usingdisrepair
Equal Opportunities Commission: Accommodation - what the law says
http://www.equalityhumanrights.com/e...s/default.aspx
Rented housing and the Race Relations Act
http://www.equalityhumanrights.com/e...aproperty.aspx
Source: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndC...ome/DG_4001391
Whether you are a landlord or tenant, it is vital that you are aware of your legal rights and obligations. The law protects both parties and does not permit you to "take the law into your own hands", irrespective of circumstances.
It is important that landlords fully understand their obligations. The Disability Discrimination Act, Sex Discrimination Act and Race Relations Act also apply to anyone letting, selling or managing premises. If you are in doubt about anything seek legal advice.
What is the landlord responsible for?
repairs to the structure and exterior of the property, heating and hot water installations, basins, sinks, baths and other sanitary installations
the safety of gas and electrical appliances
the fire safety of furniture and furnishings provided under the tenancy
ensuring that the property is fit for habitation
repairing and keeping in working order the room and water heating equipment
the common areas in multi-occupancy dwellings
What is the tenant responsible for?
paying the rent as agreed and taking proper care of the property
bills for gas electricity, telephone, etc if this was agreed with your landlord
in most cases, paying the council tax, water and sewerage charges
More useful links
Landlord responsibilities and rights guide
http://www.communities.gov.uk/public...assuredassured
Tenant responsibilities and rights guide
http://www.communities.gov.uk/public...ssuredassured2
Housing repair obligations: good practice guidance
http://www.communities.gov.uk/archiv...usingdisrepair
Equal Opportunities Commission: Accommodation - what the law says
http://www.equalityhumanrights.com/e...s/default.aspx
Rented housing and the Race Relations Act
http://www.equalityhumanrights.com/e...aproperty.aspx
Source: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndC...ome/DG_4001391
