“Do I have to let my landlord in?” is a common question tenants ask. While all tenants have the right to what is called “quiet enjoyment” of their rental property, there are some situations where it is reasonable to let landlords and tradespeople in. 

Before you refuse your landlord access or set an awkward precedent of letting them turn up unannounced, read this blog so you know your rights and responsibilities. 

Tenants’ rights and responsibilities

As a tenant, you have the right to live in the rental property undisturbed. This is called “quiet enjoyment” and in usual circumstances, the landlord must respect this. This means that the landlord cannot turn up unannounced – if they do, you have the right to refuse to let them in. If they come in anyway, they have trespassed which is illegal. 

Even if you have not paid the rent, the landlord cannot enter the property and take it back without having first taken you to court. 

On the other hand, you also have the responsibility to look after the property while you rent it. This means that, for example, if the boiler breaks down, you have a duty to report it to your property management team or landlord. And having reported it, you also have a duty to allow the engineer access to the property so they can mend the boiler. Not allowing tradespeople access to carry out essential repairs is a breach of your tenancy agreement and could end in eviction. 

Reasonable requests to access your rented home

Your landlord might ask you to let them or their contractors into your rented home so they can carry out repairs. In general, it is reasonable to expect them to give you at least 24hrs’ notice. However, if there is a real emergency, like a burst pipe and flooding, you might be given shorter notice.

If you won’t be in at the time of the repair, you are allowed to suggest another time. Alternatively, if you feel comfortable, you can ask a friend or neighbour to let people in to do repairs, or allow the landlord or lettings agent to let them in. 

During your tenancy, you can also expect inspection visits every six months. Again, the landlord must give you at least 24hrs’ notice. You also have the right to negotiate a time convenient to you, or agree that they can enter the property without your being there. 

As explained above, not allowing your landlord and/or tradespeople into your rented property to carry out essential repairs is a breach of your tenancy agreement. And given that one of the key advantages of renting is not having to pay for repairs yourself, any sensible tenant should be only too glad to grant access for repairs and maintenance. 

Access requests you can refuse

Your landlord will have a key to your property, but that does not mean they can barge in whenever they feel like it. 

If your landlord has given you less than twenty-four hours’ notice, or the work they are proposing is non-essential, you have the right to refuse access. 

Even if you have breached your tenancy agreement, for example, by not paying your rent, the landlord cannot enter the property without a court order. 

Rent property in Guildford

Cobbles are experienced lettings agents and we’re always here to answer your tenancy questions. If you rent property in Guildford and need any aspect of your tenancy agreement clarifying, we’d love to help. Get in touch today on 01483 457 000.