During Your Lease

Will the rent be increased during my term of occupation?

The terms of your lease will determine if and when your rent will increase. A rent increase occurs in the following circumstances:
• If the terms of your lease state a change in the rent payable during the period of your lease
• On receipt of a notice should your lease include a term that enables the rent to be reviewed during the period of your lease.

If rent is fixed during the period of the lease it cannot be changed. In these cases the rent will be reviewed at the end of the lease period as part of the negotiations for a new lease.

Part of my premises is in need of repair/decoration. What do I do?

The terms of your lease will determine who is responsible for repairing and maintaining both internal and external parts of the premises. 

Minor works and repairs are inclusive to your lease including but not limited to: 
• Replacing light bulbs
• Unblocking drains
• Arranging the replacement of broken window glass
• Replacing broken door locks
• Decoration internally and externally in all common areas.
• Cleaning and tidying in all common areas

On occasions where the cost of repair is chargeable, in cases where the tenant is liable, costs will be recharged to the monthly Service invoice. 

I think it is the District Council's responsibility. What do I do?

You must let the Council know promptly when any repair for which it is responsible for needs to be carried out (see 'Reporting Repairs' page). If you are unsure who is responsible for the repair, we will check the lease to confirm. 

If the Council is responsible, an order will be placed for a contractor to undertake the repair as soon as possible. The work will be triaged and prioritised by the maintenance team. 

If I am responsible, why should I pay for repairs when I already pay rent to the Council? 

Unless otherwise stated in your lease, the tenant is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the premises which includes all statutory compliance and servicing requirements. This includes legionella checking, maintaining the asbestos log book, 5 year fixed wiring electrical safety check and periodic roller shutter door inspection and service. These form part of the tenant’s legal obligations. The Council has a works improvement programme for the refurbishment or replacement of capital items for a property subject to condition and legal requirement. The tenant is responsible for maintaining regardless of this.