Who Caters for repairs when things break down in a house?
When appliances, plumbing, electrical systems, or structural elements in a house break down, determining who is responsible for repairs depends on whether the property is rented or owner-occupied. The responsibilities differ between landlords and tenants in rental agreements, while homeowners bear full responsibility for their own properties.
1.Rental Properties: Landlord vs. Tenant Responsibilities
In a rented house, the lease agreement typically outlines who is responsible for repairs. However, general guidelines are often based on tenancy laws.
Landlord’s Responsibilities
Landlords are usually responsible for maintaining the property’s structural integrity and essential systems, including:
Structural repairs(roof, walls, floors, windows, doors).
Plumbing and sewage systems (leaking pipes, blocked drains, water heaters).
Electrical systems (faulty wiring, broken switches, power outages).
Heating and cooling systems (broken HVAC, malfunctioning radiators).
Major appliances (if provided by the landlord, such as refrigerators, ovens, or washing machines).
Safety hazards (mold, pest infestations, gas leaks).
Landlords must ensure the property meets health and safety standards. If repairs are needed, tenants should notify them in writing, and landlords are legally obligated to address urgent issues within a reasonable time.
Tenant’s Responsibilities
Tenants are typically responsible for:
Minor repairs (changing light bulbs, unclogging drains caused by misuse).
Damage caused by negligence (broken windows, holes in walls, carpet stains).
Replacing batteries (smoke detectors, remote controls).
Gardening and general upkeep (mowing lawns, cleaning gutters if specified in the lease).
If a tenant fails to report an issue that worsens over time, they may be held liable for additional damages.
2.Homeowners: Full Responsibility for Repairs
For owner-occupied homes, the homeowner is entirely responsible for all repairs, whether minor or major.
This includes:
Routine maintenance (cleaning gutters, servicing the boiler, checking for leaks).
Emergency repairs (burst pipes, electrical faults, roof damage).
Appliance repairs (unless covered by a warranty or insurance).
Homeowners must budget for unexpected breakdowns, as delays can lead to more expensive repairs. Home insurance may cover certain damages (e.g., storm damage, fire, or flooding), but general wear and tear is not included.
3. Warranty and Insurance Coverage
Home warranties (for homeowners) may cover appliance and system repairs for a monthly fee.
Rental insurance (for tenants) covers personal belongings but not structural repairs.
Landlord insurance protects property owners against tenant-related damages.
Conclusion
In rental properties, landlords handle major repairs, while tenants manage minor upkeep. Homeowners must take full responsibility for their homes. Clear lease agreements and proper insurance help avoid disputes over repair obligations. Whether renting or owning, timely maintenance prevents costly damages and ensures a safe living environment.
