Repairs in rental properties are something that every tenant is worried about because most of the time it is not clear who is going to pay for the repairs. The best way to solve these issues is to clear this thing while signing the tenancy agreement. Generally, the tenancy agreements provide that who will be responsible for the repairs. Tenancy agreements normally have a clause for this but in case the same is absent you need to talk about it and get it added, otherwise it may create a lot of problems later on. Ideally, the tenancy agreement must also mention the point of contact as either the agent or the landlord with their details for contact.
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There are two types of repairs that get done in a property, i.e., routine repairs and emergency repairs. Routine repairs are the ones that occur due to normal usage of property relating to normal wear and tear. Emergency repairs are the ones that happen because of unexpected breaking of property, water pipe burst,
Routine Property Repairs
All routine repairs must be informed to the landlord or the agent in writing before being conducted. The conducting of these is the responsibility of the landlord. If in case a tenant has put in a request for repair the landlord should ideally notify within 7 days. In case of any problems the tenant can appeal to the tribunal and the needful is done.
Emergency Property Repairs
Here is a comprehensive list of what comes under emergency repairs:
- Roof leaks that are causing material problems
- Blockage in toilet pipes
- Gas leakage
- Bursting of water pipes
- Damages due to storms, fire, or any other major impact, etc…
- Electrical problems
- Damages related to floods
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Other issues like failure of any service that will disrupt your daily activities and works are considered emergency repair issues because they need to be dealt with as fast as possible. Generally, the tenant has to pay for emergency issues because there might not be time to contact the landlord at the moment. Later on, the landlord is required to pay or reimburse. For example, if any repairs are done of an emergency nature, then the landlord is liable to pay you within 7 days of notifying him of the same. To avoid any hassle, it’s best to clear things out with your landlord upfront and keep them informed of any changes in the property. This will also help you in maintaining a good relationship with them.
