Emergency repairs
Repairs where delay would put health or safety at risk.
2 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
Emergency repairs — total loss of heating or hot water, a dangerous electrical fault, a major leak, a gas escape or an insecure property — must be attended urgently, typically within 24 hours. Access rights allow entry without notice where there is a genuine emergency.
Legal requirements
- Homes must remain fit for human habitation; serious hazards must be dealt with promptly.
- Awaab's Law imposes fixed timescales for emergency hazards.
Practical guidance
- Keep a 24-hour contractor list and give tenants a written out-of-hours process.
This wiki entry 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.