Does a Landlord Have to Provide Receipts for Repairs? UK Rules Explained

Owning a rental property in the UK involves navigating a number of responsibilities and legal requirements, particularly when it comes to repairs and maintenance. For landlords, one crucial aspect of this management is the handling of receipts for repairs. Here, we explain whether landlords are required by law to provide receipts after repairs.

This may seem like a small detail, but it has significant implications for landlord-tenant relationships and compliance with UK housing laws. In this guide, we will clear up any confusion about these requirements, by explaining whether it is important for landlords to keep or provide receipts. We will also cover related concerns about the landlord's responsibility for repair work, what constitutes wear and tear and which party must pay the cost for which repairs in these circumstances.

If you have any questions we have not covered, our team is able to answer your landlord query. You can contact the landlord law experts at Percy Hughes & Roberts Solicitors by completing the enquiry form below or by calling 0151 666 9090.

Does a Landlord Have to Provide Receipts for Repairs?

No, a landlord does not have to provide receipts for repairs carried out in their property under UK law. However, while the law does not explicitly require landlords to provide receipts for every repair, doing so is considered best practice and serves multiple beneficial purposes. 

Firstly, receipts act as a tangible record that repairs have been completed, which can be crucial in resolving any future disputes with tenants about the state of the property or the return of deposits.

Under the tenancy deposit protection scheme rules, if a landlord intends to deduct costs for repairs from a tenant's deposit at the end of a lease, having receipts can be vital. These documents substantiate the landlord’s claim about the costs incurred, and therefore support their case in any potential deposit disputes. If a landlord claims a deduction from the deposit without this proof, a tenant’s challenge to the deductions might be upheld by a dispute resolution service.

In addition to this, providing receipts is an act of good faith that can help to maintain a transparent relationship with tenants. It reinforces trust and demonstrates that the landlord manages the property professionally and responsibly. This level of openness can significantly enhance tenant cooperation and satisfaction. If a landlord refuses to provide a receipt, this might be seen as suspicious even if there is nothing to hide.

So, while not required by law, keeping receipts for repairs as evidence is a wise strategy for landlords aiming to protect their investments. Providing copies can foster positive relationships with their tenants. 

Advice on Carrying Out Repairs 

Effectively managing property repairs does not just mean fixing issues as they arise; it means understanding the division of responsibility between landlords and tenants, ensuring these repairs meet legal standards and maintaining tenant satisfaction. Here are some tips for landlords on how to manage property repairs efficiently and legally:

• Plan proactively: Regular inspections and maintenance can prevent small issues from becoming big problems. This proactive approach not only saves money in the long run but also keeps tenants happy and can extend the lifespan of your property’s fixtures and fittings. Check in with tenants occasionally to discuss any concerns they might have about the condition of the property or specific issues.

• Keep comprehensive records: Document everything related to repairs, from the initial tenant request to the completion of work, including all communications between the parties. This documentation can be invaluable, especially if disputes arise later. Use a consistent system for recording details (such as the nature of the problem, dates, actions taken, and the parties involved), as this can help to avoid ambiguity. If possible, take photos showing the problem before and after the work is completed.

• Choose qualified professionals: Always use qualified and, where necessary, licensed professionals to carry out repairs. This ensures work is done to a high standard and remains compliant with safety laws and regulations. Keeping a go-to list of reliable contractors can speed up the process when quick repairs are needed.

• Communicate clearly and often: Keep tenants informed about what repairs are needed, why they are necessary, and how they will be carried out. Providing updates on repair status can alleviate tenant anxieties and build trust. Clear communication also sets the right expectations and helps prevent misunderstandings.

• Adhere to legal requirements: Be aware of your legal responsibilities regarding property repairs. This includes understanding the rights of tenants to live in a safe and well-maintained property, as well as specific obligations under local housing laws. A landlord is generally responsible for specific repair work that is needed, but tenants must carry out general maintenance on the property themselves.

• Provide and keep receipts: While not always legally required, providing tenants with receipts for completed repairs can serve as proof that the work was carried out and the expense incurred. This practice is particularly useful for financial tracking and crucial for deductions from security deposits if disputes over damages need to be resolved. Specific information about the costs and time involved in repairs may be needed in a number of circumstances and landlords should keep them until at least the end of a tenancy agreement, or longer.

Percy Hughes & Roberts has provided a number of guides in relation to carrying out repair work in your tenanted property:

• How Long Do Landlords Have to Fix Problems in the UK?

• Can a Landlord Renovate an Occupied Property?

• What Can a Landlord Deduct From a Deposit?

How Can Percy Hughes & Roberts Help?

Managing property repairs and ensuring compliance with UK housing laws requires good organisation and a proactive approach. While providing receipts for repairs to tenants might not be explicitly required by law, it plays a critical role in maintaining transparent and trustworthy relationships with tenants and safeguarding your interests as a landlord. 

At Percy Hughes & Roberts, we understand that navigating these obligations can be daunting. That is why our expert landlord solicitors are committed to providing you with the expertise and support you need to manage your properties effectively and within legal boundaries.

Should you find yourself in need of advice or assistance, the expert landlord team at Percy Hughes & Roberts are here to support you. With expertise in residential landlord law, we are dedicated to helping you manage your properties with confidence, protect your investment and avoid falling afoul of any legal issues.

For more information on our landlord services, do not hesitate to contact our expert landlord solicitors today. Call us on 0151 666 9090, or send us your query by email by filling in our online contact form.