What Are the Obligations of a Landlord?

Tenants and Landlords have obligations regarding property upkeep. These obligations are simple rights or legislation that can be enforced by British courts. There are also many regulations set on landlords: they will have to cohere to the Disability Discrimination Act, Race discrimination Act and Sex Discrimination Act when they allow someone to let the property.The Housing Acts give rights to the tenant and regulates the proper relationships between the landlord and the tenant.What are the Responsibilities of a Landlord? A Landlord will have the following responsibilities:· Repairs to the structure of the property, exterior of the property, heating and hot water utilities along with basins, sinks, baths and sanitary utilities.· Safety of Gas and Electric appliances· Fire safety and precautions regarding furniture and furnishings that are provided with the property· Ensuring the property is up to a reasonable standard for habitation· Repairing and maintenance of water heating.· Maintenance of common areas if the property is a Multi Occupancy dwelling.What are the Responsibilities of a Tenant? A Tenant will have the following responsibilities:· Payment of Rent as agreed at the start of the residency.· Taking proper care of the property· Paying council tax and sewerage charges (In most cases)The powers of local councils to ensure suitable housingIf a landlord does not get repairs done in a reasonable amount of time after being told about it then a tenant can take the landlord to court for costs for the repairs or to get an order stating that they must carry out the work, along with money for damages.The law also gives local authorities powers that can deal with properties that are in disrepair. This means that if a property does not meet a certain standard then a local council can step in order the owner to remedy the defect. If the landlord does not do this then they can be fined, which would increase daily.Local authorities also have the duty and power to take action to ensure that the property is in a habitable state for the tenants. If they deem it uninhabitable then there are a range of remedies available. A repair notice can be served to the landlord or in extreme cases the house can be ceased from the landlords and closed or demolished. The tenant in question will be entitled to alternative accommodation (which will not be permanent) or payments from the council.