A clear repair report helps a landlord understand the problem quickly. Prepare their emergency contact details before severe weather, and separate an urgent safety hazard from a routine maintenance request.
Know the reporting route
Check the tenancy paperwork or agent's portal for an out-of-hours number. Store it offline along with your address and relevant tenancy reference. If the building has separate management, identify who handles communal damage. Ask for an accessible alternative if the standard portal is difficult for you to use.
- Keep a record of earlier unresolved defects.
- Confirm how urgent repairs are acknowledged.
Describe the visible problem
Record which room or outside area is affected, when you noticed it and what you can safely see. Photographs can help, but never climb or enter a damaged area to obtain them. Mention hazards affecting access, heating, electrical equipment or someone's care needs so the report is properly understood.
- Keep copies of messages and reference numbers.
- Avoid guessing the technical cause.
Stay within safe limits
Do not attempt roof, gas or electrical repairs yourself. If there is immediate danger, follow emergency services advice and move to safety rather than waiting for the agent's reply. Contact your insurer about personal belongings where relevant; a landlord's building policy does not automatically cover everything you own.
- Keep essential documents and keys reachable.
- Ask what temporary arrangements are available.
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