Section 4

Section 4 refers to section 4 of the Defective Premises Act 1972, which creates a duty of care on landlords where they have an obligation or right to repair or maintain a property.

If you are responsible for repairs, section 4 requires you to take reasonable care to ensure that tenants and their household and visitors are reasonably safe from personal injury or damage to their belongings caused by those defects. The duty applies to all parts you are obliged to repair, including external areas such as paths and gardens.

The duty generally arises where you know, or ought to know, about a relevant defect. For example because the tenant has reported it, an inspection should have picked it up, or works were done badly. Failing to act can lead to a personal injury or property damage claim in addition to any housing enforcement.

Under the Renters’ Rights Act, section 4 sits alongside “fit for human habitation”, HHSRS, Awaab’s Law and rental standards. Together they make it clear that ignoring hazards is both a disrepair issue and it can expose landlords to civil claims, penalties and ombudsman action.