Which defects must be reported?

Differences in reporting obligations and repairing defects

Defects in the rental property are annoying. Whether the defects are discovered immediately or later, the right behaviour is crucial to avoiding even more annoying subsequent consequences.  

Defects classed as ‘minor repairs’

It is important to know which defects have to be repaired by you yourself and therefore do not have to be reported. These are repairs and required spare parts that are classed as minor repairs. 

Defects that are not classed as minor repairs and that you cannot repair yourself will be repaired by the landlord. However, in order that they are notified of these defects and can take care of the maintenance, they must be reported.

Remember that reporting is not optional, it is governed by tenancy law. As a tenant, you have a duty of care for the rented property. Failure to report is considered a breach of your duty of care.

How and when do I have to report a defect in the rental property?

There are no formal requirements for this. Defects can be reported either by telephone or in writing. We recommend that you report defects in writing via e-mail, as pictures can be attached and everything is immediately documented. Are you a Livit tenant? Then send us your report directly via the contact form and we will take care of it.

There is no specific time limit, but the rule of thumb is ‘as soon as possible’ to avoid consequential damage. Damage caused by natural forces (e.g. storm or water damage) must always be reported immediately.

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