If any repairs need doing, get an agreement in writing with time scales for completion of these repairs.
You will need your landlord's permission to decorate any rooms, put up shelves or make any other alterations. If permission is given, get it confirmed in writing.
Ask to see Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) and certificates for the gas and electrics.
- Gas should be checked annually. If there is no gas certificate, report it to the Health and Safety Executive.
- A electrics should be inspected every five years. For more about this, visit: Electrical Safety Standards (GOV.UK).
- If there is no Energy Performance Certificate, report it to the West Yorkshire Trading Standards.
- If your property has an EPC certificate with an F or G rating, see: Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards.
If your private landlord or agent does not do repairs where needed, report them to us:
Report a repair problem with a private landlord.
For more about housing standards, see: Repair and maintenance of houses.