What Are A Landlords Boiler Responsibilities

Having a broken boiler is stressful for anyone but in a rented property there can be uncertainty over who is responsible for getting the boiler fixed or replaced. Read on to find out more about landlords boiler responsibilities…

Landlords’ Boiler Responsibilities

If your boiler is not working, you must contact your landlord. It is the legal responsibility of the landlord to make sure you are safe and comfortable in your home.

The Gas Safety Regulations 1998 say that landlords are responsible for ensuring checks are carried out on the fittings, appliances, chimney and flues by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Providing you haven’t damaged the boiler yourself it is up to your landlord to have the boiler repaired or replaced. In emergencies, where there is no heating or hot water, it must be arranged by your landlord within 24 hours. If it cannot immediately be fixed in an emergency, it is their responsibility to arrange for alternative accommodation for you until it is safe for you to return.

Should Boiler Services be Arranged by the Landlord?

Landlords are required to arrange for services to check all gas appliances are working safely. Should servicing or maintenance need to be done, your landlord must give you at least 24 hours’ notice if they are visiting the property.

What if My Landlord Does Not Help?

Failure to comply with safety duties as a landlord can result in a financial penalty and/or imprisonment. Consequences can include:

• Criminal conviction
• A fine of £6,000 for every breach plus 6 months imprisonment.
• If there is a loss of life, the landlord could be charged with manslaughter.

The landlord should make sure that an up-to-date record is kept of all gas safety checks within 28 days of them being completed and that when new tenants arrive they are provided with a copy of them before their tenancy begins.

L&W Heating and Plumbing Services

Whatever your heating and plumbing needs  – from an annual gas safety check to brand-new boiler installation, L&W Heating and Plumbing can help: call us for more information.

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