Coronavirus (COVID 19): information and guidance for tenants

 

The situation with coronavirus is changing every day and we're aware that you might be feeling anxious. You may get the latest information on the situation in the united kingdom on the gov.uk site. For advice about symptoms, the way to protect yourself, and also what to do if you think that might have coronavirus, visit the NHS coronavirus webpage.

On this page we've answered some of the questions you might have as a landlord or a tenant. The full advice from the authorities can be found on GOV.UK - COVID-19, and leasing: guidance for landlords, tenants and local authorities

Can my landlord carry out repairs needed in my home?

If you aren't shielding or self-isolating, you can allow local authorities, landlords or contractors access to your residence in order to conduct a range of functions. This includes:

Routine inspections, including annual gas safety checks;

Essential and non-essential repairs and upkeep; and

Planned maintenance action inside and outside the home.

Landlords, their representatives, and tradespeople are expected to follow advice on staying awake and staying secure (social distancing) and guidance to professionals working in people's houses.

My landlord wants to come to my house, but I am self-isolating because of coronavirus – can I refuse access?

If you're self-isolating you're advised to prevent any visitors to your home, so please inform your landlord or broker that you are self-isolating. Except in an emergency, you can ask your landlord to postpone the time for your job to be carried out. Examples of emergencies are water supply, safe electricity and gas supplies, fire safety, drainage issues, pest control, and heating failure.

If an emergency fix is needed in a self-isolating home, you and your landlord should check this on a case by case basis, after public health advise. We strongly advise you to take extra measures like remaining in separate rooms during any visits and subsequent government advice on cleanliness and hygiene prior to, during, and after visits. You do not have to have direct contact with anybody visiting your property to carry out repairs.

What about legal obligations to provide regular gas and electrical safety inspections?

Landlords should make every effort to abide by existing gas A gas safety review is required at intervals of no longer than 12 months. Landlords will be required to:

Have the electrical installations in their properties Inspected and tested by someone who is qualified and competent, at least five years

Provide a copy of the report to tenants, also to the local Authority if requested

If the reports require investigative or therapeutic functions, Landlords will have to ensure this is done.

If the landlord is not able to gain entry to this property Due to restrictions in place to tackle COVID-19, or are not able to participate a Contractor to perform the necessary work, we urge landlords record all Tries to do this and all correspondence with tenants.

How can I protect myself and others in a shared house or flat?

If you have been advised to self-isolate, where possible, you need to separate yourself from other people in your household. In shared apartments or houses this could be challenging. You should minimize the time spent in common spaces such as bathrooms, kitchens, and sitting areas as far as possible and maintain shared spaces nicely ventilated. Ensure regular cleaning of common spaces including all surfaces.