What repairs is a landlord legally responsible for?

Landlords in England have a range of statutory repair obligations. Under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords must keep in repair and proper working order: the structure and exterior of the dwelling (including roofs, walls, windows, doors, and drains); installations for the supply of water, gas, and electricity; sanitation equipment (basins, sinks, baths, and toilets); and installations for space heating and heating water. The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 additionally requires the property to be fit for human habitation throughout the tenancy, meaning it must be free from serious health hazards as assessed under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System. Gas appliances must be inspected annually by a Gas Safe engineer. Electrical installations must be inspected by a qualified electrician at least every five years. The landlord is not responsible for repairs caused by the tenant's misuse or damage, or for decorative repairs that are the tenant's own responsibility under the tenancy agreement. Tenants must report defects to the landlord in writing promptly. If a landlord fails to carry out required repairs after being given reasonable notice, the tenant can report the matter to the local authority's environmental health department, apply to the court for a damages claim, or use the right to repair scheme where applicable.