Landlord liability for injuries at a rented property
Landlords owe a duty of care in relation to the structure and installations of a rented property, and liability often turns on whether a hazard should reasonably have been identified and fixed.
5 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
Landlords owe a duty of care in relation to the structure and installations of a rented property, and liability often turns on whether a hazard should reasonably have been identified and fixed.
When liability can arise
Injuries linked to disrepair the landlord knew or should have known about, such as a broken step or faulty wiring left unrepaired.
The role of inspections
Regular inspections and prompt repairs are the strongest evidence that a landlord acted reasonably if a claim is later made.
Insurance considerations
Landlord liability insurance, alongside buildings cover, protects against the cost of a successful injury claim.
Responding to an incident
Record what happened, preserve evidence of the property's condition at the time, and notify your insurer promptly.
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This guide is general information for UK landlords and letting agents, not legal advice. Rules differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland — check your local requirements or take advice before acting.