Looking after the property
You have a responsibility to take care of the property you are renting and avoid causing any damage. In general, landlords are responsible for -
- the repair and maintenance of the exterior
- the structure of the property
- plumbing
- wiring
- central heating
They also need to make sure that gas and electrical installations comply with safety standards. As a tenant, you are responsible for -
- looking after internal decorations, furniture, and equipment
- reporting repairs, preferably in writing
- minor maintenance. Checking smoke alarms are working and changing light bulbs, for instance
- repairing or replacing anything you damage
- disposing of your rubbish properly by making sure that you use the correct bins and by putting out your bins for emptying when and where you are supposed to
- complying with your tenancy agreement regarding pets, parking and gardening, for example
- heating the property adequately and making sure it is kept well ventilated
Asking permission when it is needed
Most tenants must ask permission from their landlord if they want to -
- make improvements to the property
- sublet or take in a lodger
- pass on the tenancy to someone else
- run a business from the property
You may also need to ask permission for things such as -
- keeping a pet
- smoking
- parking a caravan on the property
Always put your request in writing. Make sure you get your landlord's written permission.