Are landlords responsible for window blinds?

It can be challenging for landlords to determine what to provide, especially for those who are new to renting or are leasing a specific property for the first time. The most important consideration is to ensure compliance with legal requirements, while also being mindful of various other aspects such as tenant attraction, rental yield and upfront costs.

One of the things you are likely weighing up is window blinds and window coverings. This comprehensive guide will detail the legal requirements and how the situation might change depending on how the property is listed and advertised to the tenant. So, are window coverings the responsibility of the landlord? Let’s find out.

Property maintenance requirements

Landlords are responsible for making sure their tenants have a safe and comfy place to live. This means they need to keep up with repairs, respond to tenant requests, check on the property regularly, and take care of routine maintenance to keep everything in good shape. This includes window blinds and window coverings if they are part of a furnished property.

The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 states that a landlord must keep a rented property in good condition. Section 11 outlines landlords are responsible for fixing problems with the structure, exterior, plumbing, electrical systems, heating, and other essential installations within the property to ensure it is “in a state of fitness for human habitation”. But does this apply to window blinds?

Are landlords responsible for window blinds?

Landlords are responsible for ensuring that the property they are letting is habitable and safe. However, the responsibility for specific items, such as window blinds, will depend on whether the property is let furnished or unfurnished. If you’re unsure whether to opt for a furnished letting or unfurnished letting, check out our guide that weighs up the positives and negatives.

Furnished lettings

So, are landlords responsible for window blinds in furnished lettings? In a furnished letting, the responsibility for window blinds falls on the landlord. This is because people consider window blinds essential for privacy and overall comfort within the property. They must be kept in good working order and be compliant with relevant safety standards, such as fire regulations.

If the blinds get damaged or become faulty, then landlords are responsible for making repairs and/or replacing the window blinds entirely.

Unfurnished letting

But are window coverings the responsibility of the landlord in an unfurnished letting? The responsibility is less clear-cut when it comes to an unfurnished letting. There may be cases where the property already has basic window coverings such as white nettings, or basic features such as curtain rails.

The tenant is typically responsible for supplying and installing their own window blinds or coverings. If this is the case, the tenant is then responsible for the safety, repairs and replacement if necessary.

However, landlords are responsible for window blinds in part. The landlords must make sure the window coverings are safe and free from fire hazards. Landlords might also need to consider the risk of strangulation from cords, especially if the tenant has young children.

Communication and documentation

Clear communication and a well-drafted tenancy agreement is super important to determine if landlords are responsible for window blinds in specific circumstances. This agreement should clearly outline which party is responsible for the maintenance, repair, and replacement of window blinds.

By explicitly stating these responsibilities in the tenancy agreement, both landlords and tenants can avoid misunderstandings and conflicts that may arise during the tenancy. This clarity ensures that both parties are aware of their obligations regarding window blinds, preventing any ambiguity or disagreement.

A seemingly simple dispute about window blinds can escalate and lead to legal action. This can be costly and time-consuming for both landlords and tenants. Therefore, it is essential to have a comprehensive tenancy agreement that addresses all aspects of the rental property, including window blinds. Then it is clear if landlords are responsible for window blinds.

Furthermore, a well-drafted tenancy agreement can also specify the type and quantity of window blinds that the landlord requires for the rental property. This can prevent disputes over the suitability of the blinds and ensure that they meet the necessary safety and functional standards.

In addition to clarifying responsibilities, a tenancy agreement can also outline procedures for handling any issues that may arise with the window blinds. This may include procedures for reporting repairs, obtaining quotes for replacements, and resolving any disputes that may occur.

By investing time and effort into creating a comprehensive tenancy agreement, landlords can protect their investments and maintain positive relationships with their tenants.

Even if you have a well-written tenancy agreement and know where your responsibilities lie, it is crucial to secure landlord insurance to further protect your investment. To compare landlord insurance quotes, contact us at 01788 818 670 today to find out more, or get a quote online.