When renting a property, sometimes it can be confusing when it comes to deciding what is the responsibility of the tenant and what should be taken care of by the landlord.
Most responsibilities will be outlined in the contract that you both signed before the start of the tenancy, so if any problems arise, this is where you will find out who is responsible. However, we thought we'd take you through some of the most common things you will be responsible for as a tenant.
Use appliances correctly
When living in a rented property, it's normal for your landlord to provide white goods. Sometimes they will also provide things like small kitchen appliances and a television.
Although you are paying to live in the property, the fixtures, fittings and removable appliances don't belong to you and should be used correctly, so as not to damage or break them.
As a tenant you are responsible for doing things like defrosting the freezer, draining the washing machine and cleaning the oven, so they work as best as they can. If you neglect to use or care for appliances correctly, the responsibility to fix or replace them may fall on you – although most of the time appliances will fail because they're old.
Use extractor fans where installed
If there is an extractor fan installed in your bathroom, use it. And if there isn't, be sure to open the window when you use the shower or bath to let steam escape from the room.
Mould is likely to build up if you don't ventilate the bath or shower room properly, which can quickly become a problem.
Report problems to your landlord
If there is a problem with your rented property during the term of your tenancy, it is your responsibility to report it to your landlord.
You shouldn't ignore problems, like leaks or peeling paintwork, as they will get worse over time. And if you cause damage to the property, it's important to be honest with your landlord about what has happened and notify them immediately – especially if the damage makes the property vulnerable, such as a broken window.
On this note, you need to notify your landlord if you carry out any repair work to make sure that they agree with the work taking place. This also applies if you are going to take on any cosmetic work. Remember, it's not your property and it may not be to your landlord's taste.
Replace smoke alarm batteries
While it is the responsibility of your landlord to provide smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your rented property where applicable, it is your responsibility as the tenant to make sure they are working and to replace batteries if they run out.
The same goes for lightbulbs. If there are lightbulbs that were working at the beginning of the tenancy that aren't working at the end, you are responsible for replacing these at your own expense.
Dealing with pests
Every landlord will have their own preference as to how they deal with pests, which should be outlined in your tenancy agreement. But you need to be aware that responsibility doesn't always fall on the landlord and as the tenant, you may need to sort the problem out yourself. This usually depends on what type of pests you have.
Mice are common in many London properties and are a problem that is usually left for the tenant to deal with. But you must let your landlord know if you have vermin, so that they're aware of the situation and let them know how you will go about removing them.
Things that your landlord is responsible for:
- Putting your deposit in a protection scheme
- Providing appliances that work correctly
- Ensuring the building is safe
- Having buildings insurance
- Providing smoke alarms by law
- Carrying out necessary repair work
- Arranging an annual gas safety check
