Landlords are only responsible for keeping a rental unit in livable condition, but many renters feel like they are stuck in living conditions that are far from ideal. A dripping bathroom sink, a stained carpet, or a lock, that either opens with too much ease or too much difficulty.
These are not major problems but still the landlord should take responsibility, even if the solution is to call in a professional service to provide a lock change in Harrow.
Landlords and Major Problems
All major problems must be fixed by the landlord. This includes keeping the building structurally sound with its floors, roofs, and stairways. All heating, electrical, and plumbing must also be operating safely. This means that hot and cold water is supplied reasonably, and any infestations must be exterminated.
Keep in mind though, that if a problem is the result of the renters own carelessness, the repair bill will not be covered by the landlord. If it is not paid that amount could be taken from the security deposit.
Minor Repairs
There are a number of factors that come into play when determining if the landlord has to take care of any minor repairs such as a leaky faucet or old paint.
It is suggested to look at the terms of your lease, any state and local building codes, or state landlord tenant laws to see if your landlord is legally required to make these repairs.
How to Get Minor Repairs Made
Many landlords will not take care of minor repairs if it is not in the contract. However there are a few different ways that have proven useful in getting landlords to take care of the minor problems.
Submit a Repair Request
First you can write a repair request. Even if you have already verbally requested the repair it is always helpful to write it down. This can be a way to let the landlord know that the repair of the problem is in their best interest.
It also lets them and get over if they were quick to say no the first time. Let the landlord know how the problem could become worse if it does not get fixed in an acceptable amount of time. Also let them know if the problem has the potential for injury. If the landlord believes that they will be liable for someone else’s injury they might be more apt to fix it.
Note to your landlord if the problem is posing any security risk. This could be a broken lock or busted hallway light. These things do not ensure the safety of the tenants; therefore the landlord is liable for any repercussions of these failed security devices. Do emphasize how this affects not only you, but other tenants as well.
Propose Mediation
Another option is to propose a mediation meeting. In route for the night or ignored you can contact a service that provides mediation in a situation like this. The mediator can help you reach a mutually acceptable solution but does not judge.
Report to Local Building or Housing Agency
You can also report the landlord to your local building or housing agency. It is possible that even minor problems violate local housing or building codes. Get in touch with the agency that enforces this to find out. It should be noted that doing this will not improve your relationship to the landlord.
Suing your Landlord
Finally suing your landlord in a small claims court is the final option. It needs to be proven that the problems decrease the value of the unit you are living in and the judge he could award you the amount of the difference between what your rent is and the amount that the unit is actually worth with the unaddressed problems. This is the solution that should be used if there is absolutely nothing else you can do to have your landlord fix it.
(Original Post: http://addictedtoproperty.co.uk/minor-repairs-and-renters-rights/)