Issues rarely resolve themselves and while homeowners can put off those ‘off jobs’ for another day, they can’t be ignored in rental properties.

So, what would be considered ‘emergency maintenance’ in a rental property? How do you know if it’s urgent? A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself: could the problem cause injury? Is there a risk of major damage to the property? Is there a threat to health and safety (for the neighbours as much as tenants)? These could include:

• No running water.
• A burst or leaking pipe or flooding.
• Fire – no matter how small.
• A gas leak or broken gas pipe.
• Broken heating during the colder months.
• Electrical problems, or no electricity supply.
• A seriously leaky roof.
• Broken doors, or locks which cannot be secured.
• A break-in, or attempted break-in.

Of course, some of these issues would necessitate calling the emergency services or the utility company. Others need a qualified contractor to come and sort the problem once it’s been reported to the letting agent or the landlord.

Some property problems which arise may be uncomfortable to live with or inconvenient, but that doesn’t mean they’re an emergency. These can be sorted out later.

So, if the problem does not pose a threat to the health and safety of the tenant or the property, then it’s not an emergency. But the issue should still be reported to the letting agent or the landlord by contacting them during normal business hours.

Working together to prioritise what’s really important makes a safe home a happy home.