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Landlord and tenant obligations

Whether you are a landlord or tenant, it is vital you are aware of your legal rights and obligations. The law protects both parties and says you cannot take the law into your own hands.

The landlord is responsible for:

• repairs to the structure and outside of the property, heating and hot water systems, basins, sinks, baths and other sanitary installations
• the safety of gas and electrical appliances
• the fire safety of furniture and furnishings provided
• ensuring that the property is fit for habitation
• repairing and keeping in working order the room and water heating equipment
• the common areas in multi-occupancy dwellings

The Disability Discrimination Act, Sex Discrimination Act and Race Relations Act also apply to anyone letting, selling or managing premises.

The tenant is responsible for:

• paying the rent as agreed and taking proper care of the property
• bills for gas electricity, telephone, etc if this was agreed with the landlord
• in most cases, paying the council tax, water and sewerage charges