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What are Your Obligations as a Landlord?

There are thousands of landlords across the UK, and if you plan to become one or are already renting out a property, there are various obligations that are required. Of course, some will be clearly outlined, such as each landlord should ensure that all their properties are fire-safe and have proper, up-to-date checks on both gas and electricity. But despite this, there are some obligations that are less well known.  

It goes way beyond simply collecting rent and maintaining the basic functionalities of your property; as a landlord, you must ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of your tenants. This means that landlords are responsible for maintaining a damp-free environment, which is explored in further detail below.  

The Property 

Before welcoming tenants into your property, you must ensure that certain structural and safety standards are met. Here are the obligations that landlords must adhere to for the property. 

  • All rented properties should be structurally sound and free from major disrepair. This means that the walls and floors should be properly checked for any structural damage before allowing any tenants to enter the property. 
  • Properties should have running water and a good drainage system to avoid any flooding. 
  • Properties should have adequate and safe lighting as low light levels can often be hazardous, especially on staircases. 
  • Properties should have sufficient heating and ventilation. 
  • All properties should be completely free from any type of damp. 

The Repairs 

Now that you know the property obligations, here are the issues that should be taken on by a landlord. All are important and can result in fines or legal action if not rectified in a timely manner.  

  • Any damage to the structure of the property. 
  • Any damage to the heating, which is especially important during the colder months. 
  • Issues with hot water systems. 
  • Any gas issues, which is one of the most important things to repair as gas issues can be extremely dangerous if left unresolved. 
  • Problems with the electricity, which could affect lighting and other necessities. 
  • Any repairs needed to toilets, sinks, baths, and any other essential sanitary fittings. 

How Long Do Landlords Have to Fix Problems in the UK? 

Each of these repairs must be fixed in a timely manner using the correct services and tools to avoid any further damage. While it’s stated that the landlord should carry out repairs within a reasonable timeframe of being informed about the issue, there’s no set timeframe attached to this. Despite this, as a landlord, you will want to act as quickly as possible if you’re going to avoid further damage to the property and guarantee the well-being of occupants. Repairs should always be prioritised based on the severity of the issue and the potential impact on tenant safety and comfort.  

Damp in Flat – Landlord Responsibility  

DLUHC publishes new damp and mould guidance for landlords that require that properties are free of hazards, including damp and mould. Therefore, whether it’s penetrating or rising damp, landlords are responsible for carrying out the remedial work.  

Why Addressing Damp is Crucial 

Not only does damp have the capacity to damage the structural integrity of a property, but it also creates an unhealthy living environment for tenants. Damp environments are prone to mould growth, which can exacerbate respiratory problems and allergies, posing serious health risks to occupants. What’s more, dampness can damage furnishings, paintwork, and other surfaces within the property, which can lead to expensive repairs and maintenance. Addressing damp issues promptly allows landlords to protect their investments, safeguard tenant health, and maintain compliance with legal obligations.  

Signs of Damp Problems 

Even if you’re not a professional, it’s relatively easy to identify damp problems within a property. The following signs are indicative of penetrating damp: 

  • Musty walls 
  • Wet walls 
  • Peeling paint/plaster/wallpaper 
  • Mould sports on the walls 
  • Staining on external walls 

Meanwhile, the following symptoms indicate rising damp: 

  • Damp patches on external walls, which might also have lichen growth 
  • Dampness can be felt and seen on the walls internally at low levels 
  • Moisture and bands of salt to internal plaster and external brickwork  

As a landlord, you should conduct regular property inspections to ensure that none of these symptoms are presenting themselves in your property. Similarly, you should encourage tenants to inform you promptly if they encounter any of these issues. 

Address Damp Problems with Garratt’s Damp & Timber Ltd. 

Should you encounter any of the above problems, Garratt’s Damp & Timber Ltd. is here to help. We work to eradicate damp and timber problems across London and the Home Counties, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our expert team. Together, we can find a convenient time for a damp survey in which we can diagnose your properties and propose a course of action. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you to provide safe and comfortable housing.  

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