There is no single deadline for every repair, but emergencies must be quick and routine repairs should not drag on. Here is a simple guide for tenants.
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Direct answer
There is no single deadline for every repair, but the more serious or dangerous the problem, the quicker your landlord must act. Emergencies should be made safe within about 24 hours. Routine repairs should not drag on for months. If your landlord is taking far too long, call us free on 0800 030 4669.
Key facts
- For social landlords in England, Awaab's Law sets fixed deadlines: 24 hours to make an emergency hazard safe, 10 working days to investigate a significant hazard, and a written summary of findings within 3 working days. Awaab's Law timeframes, GOV.UK
A simple guide to repair times
- Emergencies (like a burst pipe, no heating in winter, or an unsafe electrical fault): made safe within about 24 hours. See how quickly must my landlord fix an emergency.
- Urgent repairs: usually within a few days.
- Routine repairs: many social landlords aim for around 28 days, though it varies.
Damp, mould and social landlords
If you rent from a council or housing association, Awaab's Law sets strict timescales for damp, mould and emergency hazards. See what is Awaab's Law in plain English.
What to do if it is too slow
- Report it in writing and keep a copy.
- Chase in writing and ask for a date.
- Use the landlord's complaints process. See how to write a complaint letter.
How we can help
If your landlord has dragged out a repair far too long, you may have a claim. Call us free on 0800 030 4669.
Free call: 0800 030 4669 | Start your claim
Sources
- Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11 (legislation.gov.uk)
- Awaab's Law: guidance for social landlords (GOV.UK)
We review every guide at least twice a year and update it when the law changes. If you spot something out of date or wrong, email help@supportfortenants.co.uk.
Reviewed against current housing law for England and Wales as at 25 May 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.
Related guides
What are your rights as a tenant? Landlord obligations under UK law
Plain-English guide to your rights as a tenant in England and Wales. Section 11, the Fitness for Human Habitation Act, Awaab's Law, repair timeframes, and what to do if your landlord ignores you.
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What is Section 11? (Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, plain English)
Section 11 is the law that makes your landlord responsible for repairs to the structure, exterior, and key services of your home. Plain English explainer.
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What is Awaab's Law? (plain English)
Awaab's Law sets strict legal deadlines for social landlords to fix damp, mould, and emergency hazards. Here's what it means for tenants.
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Still stuck?
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