You have the right to live in a home that is:
- safe
- well maintained
- fit to live in
Your landlord must meet legal standards for repairs and property conditions.
Information about your rights as a tenant on the Shelter website
Report a problem with your home
If your home is unsafe, in poor condition or lacks facilities, contact your landlord first.
If your landlord does not respond or refuses to act, contact us:
Allerdale: [email protected]
Carlisle: [email protected]
Copeland: [email protected]
If you make a formal complaint, we will usually contact your landlord before arranging an inspection.
If hazards are identified, we will write to the landlord with details of the issues and the action required.
We assess housing conditions using the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
What your landlord is responsible for
Your landlord is usually responsible for:
- structural repairs
- fixtures and fittings
- heating, water, gas and electrical systems
Check your tenancy agreement for full details.
Damp and mould
Damp and mould can affect your health and are more common in colder months. Causes can vary and may be difficult to identify.
Find guidance on damp and mould.
Safety and legal requirements
Private landlords must meet legal requirements for safety and property standards.
Electrical safety
Landlords must:
- have electrical installations inspected at least every 5 years
- ensure the electrics meet safety standards
- provide proof of inspection to tenants
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
Landlords must install and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in line with regulations.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations 2022: guidance for landlords and tenants on GOV.UK
Energy efficiency
Private rented homes must meet minimum energy efficiency standards.
Your landlord must provide an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) at the start of a tenancy.
Find an energy certificate on GOV.UK
Problems with nearby properties
Contact us if a neighbouring property is empty or in poor condition and is affecting your home:
Allerdale: [email protected]
Carlisle: [email protected]
Copeland: [email protected]
Complaints about letting agents or property managers
Letting agents and property managers must belong to a government-approved redress scheme.
You can raise a complaint through:
- The Property Ombudsman: 0172 233 3306
- The Ombudsman Service (Property): 0330 440 1634
- The Property Redress Scheme: 0208 275 7131
Get legal advice
You can get independent advice if you need help with your rights or housing issues:
- Citizen Advice Bureau: 01228 633 900
- Cumbria Law Centre: 01228 515 129
- Leasehold Advisory Service: 020 7383 9800