Getting your landlord to do repairs on residential properties with short leases (less than 7 years).

Your landlord cannot be expected to carry out repairs unless they are told about the problem. Not all landlords arrange for the work themselves; some employ a managing agent, often an estate agent to act for them.

If you think the landlord or agent should be doing repairs you must let them know, preferably in writing. It is then best to keep a copy of all of the letters you write and all of the responses that you are sent.

What can you do?

Download our help booklet : here

Look at your contract to see what you landlord has agreed with you, you may be able to enforce this.

You may be able to take your own action under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 sections 8 to 11, which could provide compensation and/or force the landlord to undertake repairs.

You should seek legal advice before commencing any action yourself.

What can the Council do?

If, after telling your landlord about repairs, no action is taken within a reasonable time period, the Council can assist you with advice and may be able to intervene and possibly take enforcement action, either informally or by the service of a notice on your landlord or managing agent.

The Housing Section of the Council work to the Enforcement Concordat, which encourages informal communications to start with, and we seek to encorage, persuade, and then enforce.

It is important to be aware that involvement by the Council will not result in immediate repairs as intervention often follows a set procedure.

How do I get the Council involved?

Please contact the Housing Renewal Team at:

County Hall High Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 1UD
Telephone: 01983 823040
Fax: 01983 823060
Or fill in the online form Reporting


A Housing Renewal Officer will speak to you about your problems and advise you on the best course of action. A visit may be made to look at your issues and to let you know if the Council can help you.

When the Council becomes involved, it is obliged to take matters up with the landlord.

Will the landlord know the council is involved?

YES. Prior to an Officer visiting the property we require your Landlords details so that we can make contact with your Landlord to let them know our intention to visit your property.

What is the council’s housing renewal enforcement policy?

A copy of our help booklet, entitled ‘Maintaining standards of accommodation’ is available to view and download : here