Glossary
Section 11
Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. Places a duty on landlords of properties let for less than 7 years to keep the structure and exterior in repair, and the installations for water, gas, electricity, sanitation and heating in working order.
Where it comes from in law
- Section 11, Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, The foundation law for every UK tenant repair claim. Your landlord has a legal duty to keep the structure and services of your home in good repair.
Related terms
Awaab's Law
The popular name for sections of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023 that came into force in October 2025. Requires social landlords to make emergency hazards safe within 24 hours, and to investigate significant hazards within 10 working days then complete the safety work within 5 working days of the investigation ending. They must also send the tenant a written summary of findings within 3 working days of the investigation, a window that runs at the same time as the 5-day works window.
FFHH Act (Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018)
Requires every rented home in England to be fit for human habitation at the start and throughout the tenancy. Adds direct tenant enforcement rights to the historic Section 11 duty.
Renters' Rights Act 2025
The Act that abolishes Section 21 'no-fault' eviction in England, makes all new private tenancies periodic, extends disrepair duties to the private rented sector, and introduces a national landlord database. Phased into force from 1 May 2026.
Deposit protection
Tenancy deposits in England and Wales must be protected in one of three government-approved schemes (DPS, MyDeposits, TDS) within 30 days of receipt. Failure to protect can void Section 21 notices and entitle the tenant to compensation of 1-3x the deposit.
Need help with a real housing problem?
Glossary entries explain the words. If you have a damp, mould, heating or repair problem your landlord is ignoring, we can help. Call free or start your claim online.
By: Support for Tenants editorial team
Last updated:
Reviewed against current housing law for England and Wales as at 15 June 2026. Checked by our SRA-regulated panel solicitors. This is general information, not legal advice for your specific case. Any compensation figures or ranges shown are illustrative only and not guaranteed; every case is different.