Access for Inspection and Repairs — landlord obligations in England
Before entering the property to carry out an inspection or repair, you must give the tenant reasonable notice — typically at least 24 hours in advance. You must not enter without the tenant's consent except in a genuine emergency. Entering without proper notice could amount to harassment or unlawful interference with the tenant's right to quiet enjoyment.
The law that creates this obligation
Your obligations as a landlord
- Who this applies to: All private residential landlords.
- When it applies: Each time you need to access the property to inspect, carry out repairs, or allow a contractor to attend.
- What you must do: Give the tenant reasonable notice — typically at least 24 hours in writing before each visit. Keep a record of notices given and the purpose of each visit.
What good evidence looks like
Your compliance file should contain
- Written record or document confirming this obligation has been met
- Date of compliance — email timestamp, signed receipt, or platform log
Record the date and purpose of each access notice given to the tenant.
Record this obligation in your LettingsLedger workspace
Upload evidence, set reminders, and build a timestamped compliance record — all in one place.
Consequences of non-compliance
Entering without proper notice can amount to harassment under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977 and a breach of the tenant's right to quiet enjoyment. The tenant can seek an injunction and claim damages.
Further reading for landlords
LettingsLedger is a compliance evidence governance platform. It is not a legal services provider and does not provide legal advice. Content is derived from UK primary legislation at legislation.gov.uk and official GOV.UK sources. Reflects the position as at June 2026. A GovProtocol product by Pertheo Limited.