Forum update: Fixing a broken toilet

A member took to our forum recently to ask for advice when it comes to gaining access to their rental property, to repair a broken toilet.

The issue

The landlord's tenant had been in touch about a leaking toilet. While other toilets were available in the property, the landlord was keen to resolve the matter as soon as possible.

They had contacted the tenant twice to agree a suitable time for a plumber to visit the property, however on the first occasion the tenant wasn't in when the plumber got there, and the second time the tenant cancelled on the morning of the scheduled visit.

The landlord asked forum members what they would do in this situation.

The responses on our Forum

The first landlord to respond said that, for their lets, they follow rules around giving fair notice before a tradesperson, such as a plumber, visits the property, but never require the tenant to be present, and instead they provide the access themselves - if okayed by the tenant. Alternatively they would arrange for their agent, as a key holder, to do so - again giving advance notice of the visit first.

They added that if they arrived at the property with the plumber and the tenant refused to let them in, then they would respect the tenants wishes.  

An adviser from our expert landlord support team then joined the thread.

They recommended the landlord checks the AST for clauses showing the tenant must allow access for certain repairs, follow ups, inspections and so on, and highlight any they are in breach of.

They also recommended copying in any other tenants on the tenancy - and any guarantors - explaining if there are costs incurred for missed appointments going forward this would be charged at the tenants expense.

Our adviser also recommended the landlord informs the tenant that as the landlord, they are responsible for ensuring the sanitation facilities are in good working order and that the repair has to happen if they are to avoid falling foul of the law.

The adviser also stressed that neither the landlord, or any tradesmen, are permitted to gain access without the tenant's consent. They then signposted the landlord to a link on the NRLA website to a template letter that can be used when it comes to gaining access for repairs. The letter can be accessed here.