Having broken windows or doors in your rental property is not only inconvenient but can also be a safety hazard. Damaged windows or doors can lead to security concerns, drafty living conditions, and even higher energy bills. Whether it’s due to accidental damage or wear and tear, tenants have the right to live in a safe and secure environment, and broken windows or doors must be repaired promptly. In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to take if you face this issue in your rental property.
1. Assess the Damage
The first step when dealing with broken windows or doors is to assess the extent of the damage. If the glass is cracked or shattered, or the door is no longer closing properly, it’s important to understand how much of an immediate risk it poses. If there are sharp edges from broken glass or gaps in the door that could allow drafts or unauthorized access, you need to act quickly. you may need to make a housing disrepair claim to ensure that the issue is resolved and you are compensated for any inconvenience.
If the damage is significant, like a completely shattered window or a door that won’t lock properly, it’s essential to make the area safe. For broken windows, tape over the cracks to prevent injury, or cover the window with plastic or a board if the damage is severe. For broken doors, if they don’t lock or close properly, use temporary methods to secure them until a repair can be made.
If you’re unable to secure the window or door properly, it’s best to contact your landlord or property management immediately.
2. Notify Your Landlord or Property Management
As soon as you notice broken windows or doors, it’s essential to notify your landlord or property management. Most rental agreements require tenants to report any damage or maintenance issues promptly. When informing your landlord, be specific about the damage, whether it’s a cracked window or a door that no longer functions correctly. Be sure to provide the details in writing—whether by email or through a formal letter—so that there is a record of your communication.
In some cases, tenants may be required to pay for repairs if the damage was caused by their actions. However, if the damage is a result of normal wear and tear or an issue not caused by you, it is typically the responsibility of the landlord to carry out the repairs. If your landlord fails to take timely action to repair broken windows or doors.
3. Document the Damage
While waiting for your landlord to respond, it’s important to document the damage thoroughly. Take clear photographs or videos of the broken windows or doors, as well as the surrounding area. If there is any damage to your personal property, such as broken furniture from the shattered glass or exposure to the elements due to the broken door, make sure to document that as well. This evidence will be useful should you need to take further action or file a housing disrepair claim.
Having proper documentation is crucial if there are disputes about who is responsible for the damage or if your landlord is unwilling to make repairs. Your documentation will also serve as evidence for any compensation or repairs you may be entitled to.
4. Secure the Broken Windows or Doors Temporarily
Until repairs are made, you should secure the damaged windows or doors as much as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your safety. For broken windows, you can use clear tape to prevent the shards from spreading and create a temporary barrier. You may also use plastic sheeting, a wooden board, or cardboard to cover the opening. If you don’t have materials to secure the window properly, contact your landlord or property management right away to see if they can provide assistance.
For doors, especially ones that don’t lock or close properly, consider using a makeshift lock or even a piece of furniture to block the entryway temporarily. If the door poses a security risk, it’s critical to ensure that the issue is addressed immediately. Let your landlord know that the broken door is compromising your safety.
5. Follow Up on Repairs
Once your landlord or property management team is aware of the damage, they are typically responsible for organizing repairs. If the repair is delayed or the work is subpar, tenants have the right to take further action. You should follow up with your landlord to confirm the timeline for repairs, especially if the damage is affecting your comfort or safety.
If your landlord does not address the issue in a timely manner, or if they fail to carry out the repairs to an acceptable standard, you may need to escalate the matter. You can do so by contacting a professional repair service yourself, with the costs potentially being charged back to your landlord. In extreme cases, you may want to make a housing disrepair claim to ensure your rights are upheld and the issue is resolved properly.
At the Housing Disrepair Team, we specialize in helping tenants who are dealing with unresolved disrepair issues like broken windows or doors. If you’re facing delays in repairs or your landlord isn’t acting swiftly, our team can help you navigate the housing disrepair claims process.
6. Understand Your Rights as a Tenant
As a tenant, you are entitled to live in a safe and secure environment, and it’s the landlord’s responsibility to maintain the property in good condition. Broken windows or doors can compromise both your safety and comfort, and it’s important to know your rights in these situations. In most cases, the landlord is responsible for repairs unless the damage was caused by you or your guests.
If repairs are delayed or inadequate, tenants are entitled to compensation for the inconvenience, and they may also be entitled to a rent reduction or refund for the period during which the window or door was broken. If you have made repeated requests for repairs and your landlord is unresponsive, you may be able to file a housing disrepair claim to get the repairs made and receive appropriate compensation.
7. Prevent Future Damage
Once your windows or doors are repaired, it’s a good idea to take steps to prevent similar issues in the future. If you’re living in an older building, consider discussing regular maintenance checks with your landlord to catch any potential problems before they become major issues.
In some cases, landlords may be willing to install stronger windows or better security doors to improve the overall condition of the property. If you notice issues with the integrity of the doors or windows, let your landlord know promptly so they can make any necessary upgrades or repairs.
Conclusion
Broken windows or doors in a rental property can be a serious issue, but by following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that the problem is addressed quickly and effectively. Make sure to notify your landlord immediately, document the damage, and take steps to secure your apartment until repairs are made. If your landlord doesn’t respond promptly, you have the right to make a housing disrepair claim to get the issue resolved and receive appropriate compensation. At the Housing Disrepair Team, we’re here to help tenants who are dealing with housing disrepair issues. Contact us today if you need assistance navigating the claims process or getting the repairs you deserve.
