What minor repairs are

Minor repairs and replacements in properties

Did you know that minor repairs and replacements in the rental property are the responsibility of the tenant according to tenancy law? But what exactly is included in ‘minor repairs’? We provide the answer.

What is classed as minor repairs?

Minor repairs refers to work that can be done by yourself easily without special knowledge, as well as the replacement of small parts if they are available from specialist retailers. Examples are:

• Replacing kitchen and bathroom accessories (e.g. baking trays, extractor hood filters, refrigerator accessories such as egg trays, toothbrush holders, toilet seats and lids, and shower poles)
• Unblocking drains, if this is possible with simple measures
• Tightening loose screws on sockets
• Replacing bulbs in the bathroom and kitchen
• Cleaning shutters if safe without scaffolding
• Oiling hinges

Up to what amount do you have to pay for repairs and replacement parts yourself? 

Tenancy law is vague and therefore no definitive answer can be given. The amount that exceeds minor repairs is decided on a case-by-case basis. However, it should be noted that all costs of repairs that have to be carried out due to damage by the tenant are to be paid by the tenant themselves.   

Are there any exceptions?

Yes – for example, repairs in the context of minor repairs do not have to be carried out by the tenant after moving in if they were caused by the previous tenant. Any defects must be reported within 14 days of moving in. 

The rules in the tenancy agreement, which always apply individually, must also be observed. 

What is not covered under minor repairs?

Conversely, repairs or cleaning do not have to be done by the tenant themselves if they require professional know-how or if the costs are too high for minor repairs. These include, for example, the following:

• Unblocking sewage pipes to the main pipe
• Repairing dishwashers
• Shutter cleaning which is hazardous without scaffolding

Has that covered everything? Our property management team will be happy to assist you if you have any questions.

The answer to these and other questions can be found in our FAQ.