How to handle repairs and emergencies in your block

Who repairs what

The lease splits responsibility. Typically the company repairs the structure, roof, foundations, external walls and common parts; the leaseholder repairs the inside of their flat, including some windows and pipes that serve only their flat. Check the definitions of “the building”, “the flat” and “the retained parts” in your lease.

Triage

• Emergency (same day): water pouring through a ceiling, no power to common lighting, a broken front door lock, fire safety equipment failure, gas smell (call the gas emergency line first).
• Urgent (a few days): roof leak in dry weather, lift out of service, broken door entry.
• Routine: decoration, minor wear, garden work.

Contractors

Keep a small list of approved contractors with insurance, references and, where needed, Gas Safe or electrical registration. Get quotes for anything non-urgent, and remember that works over £250 for any flat need section 20 consultation.

Reasonableness

The cost of repairs must be reasonably incurred and the work of a reasonable standard, or leaseholders can challenge it at the tribunal. Keep quotes, photos and invoices.

Keep everyone informed

Tell residents what was reported, what is being done and when. It cuts repeat reports and builds trust.