Template letter
Repair request to landlord (England & Wales)
Checked: 30 October 2026
Sources: Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 s.11; Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 / GOV.UK landlord and tenant repair guidance; Shelter repairs advice (opens in a new tab) (signpost only).
This is general information, not legal advice. Free Legal Advice UK is not a law firm.
When to use this
Use this when something in your rented home needs repair and you want a clear written record that you have told your landlord or agent. Putting it in writing helps if you later need help from a council, adviser or court.
Do not use this template to threaten to withhold rent. Withholding rent can put your tenancy at risk. Get advice first if you are thinking about that.
What to keep
- Tenancy agreement and landlord / agent contact details
- Photos, videos and notes of dates when problems started or got worse
- Copies of every message you send and any replies
- Receipts if you have had to spend money because of the disrepair (this template does not claim those automatically)
This is a template only. Adapt it. Free Legal Advice UK does not give advice on your situation. See free legal help.
Letter
[Your full name]
[Your address / property address]
[Your email / phone]
[Date]
[Landlord or letting agent name]
[Their address / email]
Subject: Repair request — [property address]
Dear [Landlord / Agent name],
I am the tenant at [property address]. I am writing to report the following repair issues and to ask you to arrange for them to be put right.
Problems
- [Describe problem 1] — first noticed on [date]; location: [room / area]; impact: [e.g. no hot water / damp / safety concern].
- [Describe problem 2]
- [Add more if needed]
I enclose photos / videos taken on [dates].
Please confirm in writing:
- that you have received this report;
- what works you will arrange; and
- when someone will inspect or carry out the repairs.
Please reply within [14 days / other reasonable period]. If the issue is urgent (for example no heating in cold weather, serious leak, or an electrical or gas safety risk), please treat it as urgent and contact me as soon as possible on [phone / email].
I am happy to provide access at a mutually convenient time. Please give at least [24 / 48] hours’ notice unless we agree otherwise or there is an emergency.
Yours faithfully,
[Your signature]
[Your printed name]
General information for England & Wales only. Not legal advice. Checked 30 October 2026.