Home safety and repairs * delete

If you own your home

Regular maintenance on your home will make sure that it is kept in a good condition. If you think repairs are needed you should contact a reputable contractor. Do this straight away for faults that could damage your health, for example faulty electrical wiring.

In some cases we may be able to offer a loan to help home owners with an emergency, or urgent repair that affects your health, or safety in the home. Please see our Financial help page: help with home repairs.

If you rent your home

Your landlord must keep the property you live in safe and free from health hazards.

You will need to contact your landlord in writing, explaining the problem. You will need to keep this letter, or email.

Your landlord should tell you when you can expect the repairs to be done. You should carry on paying rent while you’re waiting. You must give your landlord access to the property to inspect it or carry out repairs. Your landlord has to give you at least 24 hours notice and visit at a reasonable time of day, unless it’s an emergency and they need immediate access.

If you do not hear from your landlord after 14 days please contact us.

If your home needs repairs the gov.uk website explains the process in more detail.