My tenancy agreement says I'm responsible for all repairs. Is that legal?Beta*
Repairs, damp and mould
Private renting in England since the Renters' Rights Act 2025, unless the question says otherwise. General information, not legal advice.
Not for the main repairs. By law (section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985) the landlord must repair the structure and outside of the home, including the roof, walls, windows, gutters and drains. They must also keep the heating, hot water, gas, electrics, sinks, baths and toilets working. A tenancy agreement can't move those duties onto you, and a clause that tries to has no effect. You are expected to do small jobs, such as changing light bulbs and fuses or unblocking a sink you blocked, and to pay for damage you cause.
Sources: Shelter: repairs in private rented homesGOV.UK: private renting, repairs
More on repairs, damp and mould
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Savvy Renter — savvyrenter.co.uk · free tools for renters. Answers checked 15 October 2026. The full list is also published as faq.json.
* Beta: new page, not yet reviewed by a housing adviser. General information, not legal advice.
* Beta: new page, not yet reviewed by a housing adviser. General information, not legal advice.