Tenants' Handbook: Your Responsibilities
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Tenants' Handbook – Looking After Your Home
This section of your handbook explains what we, as your landlord, will do, and what you, as our tenant, are responsible for. Keeping to these arrangements helps us maintain good homes and a good relationship with all our tenants. If you are ever unsure who is responsible for a particular repair, please contact the housing office before taking action.
Repairs we carry out
We are responsible for keeping the structure of your home in good order. This includes the roof, walls, windows and outside doors, as well as the systems that supply water, gas and electricity, and the heating. If any of these develops a fault, report it to us promptly and we will arrange a repair. Urgent repairs, such as a serious water leak or a complete loss of heating in winter, will be dealt with within twenty-four hours. Less urgent repairs will be completed within one month.
Your responsibilities
As a tenant, you are responsible for keeping your home clean and for minor upkeep. This includes replacing light bulbs, keeping sinks and drains clear, and testing the batteries in your smoke alarm regularly. You must also take reasonable care to prevent damage. For example, in very cold weather you should keep your home gently heated to stop the pipes from freezing. If a repair is needed because of damage caused by you, a member of your household or a visitor, you may be charged for the cost of putting it right.
Decorating and alterations
You are welcome to decorate the inside of your home, but you must not make structural changes, such as removing walls, without our written permission. Similarly, you should not put up a shed, fence or satellite dish outside without asking us first. Any improvements you make must be left in place when you move out, unless we agree otherwise.
Ending your tenancy
If you decide to leave, you must give us at least four weeks' notice in writing. When you move out, the home should be clean, empty of your belongings and left in good condition, apart from fair wear and tear. Any rent owing must be paid in full. We will inspect the property and return your deposit, less the cost of any repairs for which you are responsible.