Your responsibilities
You should give your landlord access to the property to inspect it or carry out repairs. Your landlord has to give you at least 24 hours’ notice and visit at a reasonable time of day, unless it’s an emergency and they need immediate access.
Coronavirus has not changed these rules, so you should work with your landlord to make sure that any visits are for an urgent reason (for example, you do not have hot water, heating or toilet facilities). Follow NHS guidelines if the visit must happen. You can read the coronavirus and renting guidance for tenants and landlords.
You must also:
- take good care of the property, for example turn off the water at the mains if you’re away in cold weather;
- not block flues or vents;
- use the heating and hot water system correctly;
- keep it clean;
- carry out minor maintenance tasks expected of you, such as renewing sealant, replacing smoke alarm batteries, etc.;
- pay the agreed rent, even if repairs are needed or you’re in dispute with your landlord;
- pay other charges as agreed with the landlord, for example Council Tax or utility bills;
- repair or pay for any damage caused by you, your family or friends
- only sublet a property if the tenancy agreement or your landlord agrees;
- continue to pay rent to the best of your ability and speak to your landlord if you cannot.
Your landlord has the right to take legal action to evict you if you do not meet your responsibilities.
Every occupier of the HMO must:
- conduct themself in a way that will not hinder or frustrate the property manager’s duties;
- allow the manager entry at all reasonable times;
- provide the manager reasonably required information;
- take reasonable care to avoid causing damage;
- hygienically store and dispose of waste as required by the manager; and
- comply with the manager’s reasonable requests for prevention of fire, protection of safe means of escape and use of fire equipment.