The Lowdown On Landlord Responsibility For Fence Repair

If a fence needs repairing at a rented property, the first question normally asked is: “Does my landlord have to pay for my fence or do I?”. Getting a straight answer is often pretty difficult. So, here’s a brief guide to what you need to know about landlord responsibility for fence repair.

What is the landlord responsible for when it comes to fence repair?

• Landlords are responsible for making sure their property is fit for occupation. This includes keeping buildings and grounds in good repair and removing potential hazards. Fencing comes under grounds and landlords have to ensure the property’s boundaries are safe and secure.
• Landlords are responsible for the costs of repairing fencing that has become dilapidated over time (e.g. broken because of wear and tear) or damaged by an external cause (e.g. a storm).
• When it is up to a landlord to repair a fence, they’re responsible for negotiating with neighbours with regards the costs. There is often confusion about who fencing belongs to and therefore who is liable for costs. Our helpful guide can help you work out who is responsible for what fencing. However this is not the tenant’s job to find out.

What are tenants responsible for with fencing repairs?

• Landlords are responsible for repairs to fencing and gates that they’ve installed. So, if a tenant has installed fencing and it has broken, they’re liable for the repair costs.
• A tenant is responsible for the costs of repairing fencing if they damaged it. For example if they rolled a car into the fence or if a football broke the panels. Most rental agreements make it clear that tenants must not destroy, deface or damage the property, or permit anyone to do so.
• It’s always a good idea to keep a record of all landlord–tenant correspondence, e.g. emails/letters making a request for repair. Should any dispute arise, it’s always useful to have these to hand.

Remember, getting fencing at a rented property repaired doesn’t have to be difficult or acrimonious, and very often it isn’t. Landlords and tenants who respect their properties and invest in a healthy landlord–tenant relationship get repairs done quickly and without fuss.

Find out more about the wide range of fencing available from Knight Fencing at www.knight-fencing.co.uk, or contact us on 01243 641272, 01579 529298 or [email protected].