Repairs and safety in rented accommodation

YOUR LANDLORD'S BASIC RESPONSIBILITIES

Landlords must make sure your home is safe, in good repair, and suitable to live in. This includes things like:

the structure of the building (roof, walls, windows, doors),
heating and hot water,
gas, electricity and plumbing,
fire safety in shared properties,
keeping the property free from serious health risks such as damp or mould.

This applies whether you are renting a shared house, a flat, or most other types of private accommodation.

BEFORE 1 MAY 2026

These responsibilities already exist under housing law. However, in practice:

standards and enforcement can vary,
some students delay reporting problems because they worry about upsetting their landlord,
repair issues (especially damp, mould, heating, or fire safety) can escalate if not raised early.

It is important to:

report problems clearly and in writing,
keep records and photos,
follow up if repairs are not completed.

AFTER 1 MAY 2026 UNDER THE RENTERS' RIGHTS ACT

The Act aims to strengthen standards and enforcement, including:

extending the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector,
improving tenants’ ability to challenge poor conditions,
strengthening rules around hazards such as damp and mould,
increasing accountability through a new Ombudsman and landlord database.

Some detailed standards and timelines will be introduced through regulations, so the exact requirements may continue to develop.

WHY THIS MATTERS FOR STUDENTS

Students can be particularly affected by:

cold or poorly insulated housing,
overcrowded HMOs,
mould caused by poor ventilation or building defects,
fire safety risks in shared accommodation.

Because many student tenancies are short, problems are sometimes left unresolved. However, poor conditions can still affect your health, studies and wellbeing.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO IF SOMETHING NEEDS REPAIRING

1. Tell your landlord or letting agent as soon as possible
Many problems are resolved quickly when reported clearly.

2. Put it in writing (email is fine)
This creates a record if the issue continues.

3. Be specific and practical
For example:

describe the problem,
state when it started,
describe how it affects you.

4. Follow up if there is no response
If necessary, seek advice from the Students’ Union or your local council.

There are separate steps and escalation routes if repairs are delayed (see related guidance on reporting repairs and safety).

COMMUNICATION TIP

Clear and professional communication often leads to faster solutions. For example:
“I’ve noticed an issue with damp in my bedroom. Could you confirm when this can be inspected and repaired?”

Most landlords and agents want to maintain their property and may not know about problems unless you tell them.

IF YOU FEEL UNSAFE

If there is an immediate safety risk (for example no heating in winter, serious electrical problems, fire safety issues), seek advice quickly. Your local council or advice service can take enforcement action if needed.

This overview is designed to help you understand your rights and next steps. More detailed guidance on reporting processes can be found in our 'How to report repairs and safety issues (and what to do if nothing happens)' article.