Advice line top queries: maintenance

Just over one in ten queries to the SAL advice helpline are about property maintenance. Some queries are about what a landlord is responsible for when it comes to property condition/repair and this is set out in SAL’s factsheet on condition standards in the private rented sector. Generally, landlords are responsible for ensuring that the property is habitable and that the structure of the property, fixtures, fittings and appliances are in a reasonable state of repair and in proper working order.

We are frequently asked about how to gain access to a property for maintenance work when a tenant is either not communicating or is actively denying access. In this situation the landlord should apply to the tribunal for assistance to enforce their right of access. This power can be used where access is needed for safety checks, to inspect the property’s condition and to carry out repairs. For guidance on using this procedure see page 2 of our factsheet on accessing properties.

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