Are landlords responsible for drafty windows?

Are landlords responsible for drafty windows? The short answer to this is yes. Being a landlord means that you need to ensure things like drafty windows are fixed, as this will keep your tenants feeling comfortable in their living space. 

Drafty windows in rental properties are a common concern, and, as stated in section 11 of The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords are required to keep the structure and exterior of the property in good working order. Here, we take a look at your responsibilities in fixing drafty windows as a landlord.

Do landlords have to fix drafty windows? 

There are a few different legislations that emphasise your responsibilities in keeping the property you rent out to your tenants in livable conditions, for example: 

• • Landlord and Tenant Act 1985: This act, as mentioned above, highlights the responsibility of the landlord to ensure that the property is kept in good condition and repair. This includes windows. 
  • Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018: This act makes sure that landlords are aware that tenants have the right to live in a property that has no dampness and that they do not live in cold conditions caused by inefficient insulation, which can be caused by drafty windows. 
• Domestic private rented property: minimum energy efficiency standard – landlord guidance:  As a part of the government striving to meet the Net Zero target, all properties need to meet minimum energy efficiency standards. Windows that are not double-glazed result in a property not being sufficiently insulated. 

It’s important to note, however,  that minor drafts may not always be a legal issue, but when it comes to significant disrepair, like rotting window frames and broken seals, it could become a legal issue. 

When is a landlord responsible for fixing drafty windows  

There are some specific instances when a landlord will be responsible for fixing a drafty window, for instance, when there is structural damage caused to the property, i.e., if window frames are broken or rotting,  or when they cannot be repaired. 

Also, when there is significant heat loss in the property, landlords will be held responsible for fixing drafty windows. As mentioned above, this is when drafts are big enough to impact on energy efficiency and heating costs. 

In addition, landlords will be responsible for fixing drafty windows when a tenant’s health and safety are at risk. For example, if the draft contributes to dampness, mould, or an unfit living environment. In cases where severe drafts make the home unfit for habitation, environmental health officers may intervene.  

When a landlord may not be responsible

So, when may a landlord not be responsible for fixing drafty windows? 

We mentioned before that if the draft is minor, meaning the window is still functional but allows a small amount of air through it, it may not constitute a legal repair issue. Similarly, if the tenant has caused malicious damage to the property (breaking the window), the landlord can hold them responsible for fixing the window. 

Listed or older buildings also fall under this category, as they most likely have more traditional windows that come with inherent drafts. In this case, landlords will not legally be required to replace these windows or fix these drafts. 

Drafty windows and energy efficiency 

Drafty windows will automatically contribute towards higher energy bills for tenants, as their living space will not heat up as quickly, or the property will let big amounts of air out, resulting in radiators being kept on for longer than they need to be. 

As well as this, renting out a property with drafty windows will most likely lead to more tenant complaints, making the property less desirable. As a landlord, if you decide to make sure that you improve the insulation of your property and focus on sealing drafty windows, you’ll enhance your property’s value and long-term tenant satisfaction. This way,  your property will also meet the minimum energy efficiency standards. 

Best practices for landlords 

So, how do you keep on top of drafty windows as a landlord? For starters, make sure that you conduct regular inspections to identify any issues with windows as soon as possible and before they worsen. 

If a tenant informs you of a drafty window, make sure that you repair the window as soon as possible. Also, encourage your tenants to report any issues to you, and make sure there is a system in place for tenants to be able to do so. 

Lastly, consider energy efficiency upgrades where feasible. Upgrade to double glazing or use draft-proofing solutions to improve insulation.  

So, ensure that you keep on top of any drafty windows as a landlord so that you not only keep your tenants feeling happy and comfortable in their living space but also so that your property is more energy efficient. 

Also, remember that any minor drafts may not be considered your responsibility to repair, but make sure that you conduct regular inspections so that you can repair any drafty windows before they worsen, or result in tenant complaints. 

As a landlord, you may also be looking at landlord insurance quotes for your property. At CIA Landlords, we are never beaten on a quote, and our team of experts will always be able to find the best-tailored landlord insurance solutions for your needs. Make sure that you get in touch with us today on 01788 818 670 for more information.