How Long Does a Landlord Have to Fix a Broken Boiler in the UK?

If you are a renter in the UK and you are dealing with a broken boiler issue. Meanwhile, if your landlord may not respond to this issue, then you are eligible to file a claim. The common reasons for boiler failure issues include broken thermostats, malfunctioning motorised valves, low pressure, broken system diaphragms and airlocks, and more.  In this article, we will help you understand landlord responsibilities, how long your landlord has to fix the broken boiler issue and what steps you can take to fix it.

 

What Are Landlord Responsibilities to Fix Broken Boiler

In the UK, every landlord must ensure that the heating systems in their rental properties are functional and safe. A broken boiler, for example, must be repaired especially in winter because it affects both the heating and hot water supply.

Under the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1985, landlords are obligated for the following: 

– Maintaining the property in good condition. 

– Resolving serious matters which may put the tenant’s health and safety at risk such as heating or hot water. 

– If a landlord does not pay attention to necessary repairs, tenants may file a heating claim.

 

What Can A Tenant Do If the Boiler Does Not Work?  

Procedures a tenant should be followed if the boiler breaks down:  

 Tell Your Landlord: As a first step, write to them via text or email and provide details about the situation. Doing so gives the landlord a timestamp and keeps a record of the report.  

 Resend Message: If there’s no response, resend your message or call them directly after 24 to 48 hours. This helps to follow up on the issue in case it was forgotten.  

Maintain Record: Make sure to keep a log of every communication you have with your landlord, and what you discussed along with the time and date.

 Start a Claim: Landlords tend to ignore the issues until they get a bit serious. If this happens, engage directly with our Housing Disrepair Team. Our experts give details about the tenants’ rights and how you can start a claim against a landlord.  

  

Does a broken boiler can cause health issues?

Yes, Tenants can suffer danger to their health due to a broken boiler. Damp is a consequence of a broken boiler, which can pose serious health risks to residents. Faulty boilers or disrupted heating methods can lead to an environment that is cold and wet. Asthma and bronchitis respiratory issues become worse in cold environments, and alongside that, the cold can bring about a rise in cardiovascular issues.

Broken boilers can also cause a high rise in humidity, resulting in the growth of mildew and mould. Allergies, respiratory complications, and health issues are bound to affect someone who has a weak immune system because mould spores have the potential to trigger them. Cleanliness can be hard to maintain, giving rise to infections.

Malfunctioning boiler units can make people vulnerable to the danger of carbon monoxide. Symptoms are common, including dizziness, headaches, nausea, unconsciousness, and in extreme situations, death. After all, health risks can easily be avoided with regular maintenance.

 

What is the Time Duration To Fix A Broken Boiler?

Unlike other issues, there is no fixed time a landlord is given to resolve a broken boiler problem. However, the landlord must ensure a tenant is taken care of. This period is classified into the following categories:

– Urgent Fix: When the boiler stops working, it is an urgent issue. Hence, the landlord must act within 48 hours. Availability of certain parts or bad weather can modify this time frame but this is not expected. 

– Non-Urgent Fix: A minor issue with a boiler that somewhat works gives the landlord a timeline of 1 to 2 weeks to resolve it. 

– Emergency Fix: In the case where a significant injury is caused to a tenant, a landlord must act within 24 hours.

 

Steps to Take When Facing a Broken Boiler Issue

Within the UK, landlords may require some time and leave the heating system without fixing it for about 24 hours. If you are having issues with your heating at your rental property, do the following:

1. Tell Your Landlord About the Problem Personally: Draft a letter to your landlord explaining the issue and mentioning the date you began noticing it.
2. Allow Fair Time: Within 24 hours an emergency is required to fix the issue from the landlord. If it is not an emergency, it is expected that the landlord deals with it in a reasonable time frame.
3. Give a Reminder: If you have received no response, follow up with another written request. Always keep a record of your communications.
4. Seek Expert Advice: Contact our Housing Disrepair Team to cater to your needs.
5. Consider Compensation: Report any additional expenses and bring evidence for your claim.

Conclusion

It is the legal duty that your landlord must fix the broken boiler. Not only is this a legal duty, but the landlord is legally responsible within a specific time frame to fix your broken boiler. The Landlord and Tenant Act in 1985 was adopted to prevent landlords from avoiding this responsibility. It is stated in Article 11 of the Act 1985 that your landlord carries out repairs in a ‘reasonable time’. If it’s an emergency repair as you have no heating or hot water, your landlord should fix this in 24 hours.