Should tenants receive compensation for delayed hot water repair?

Failed hot water tank with a no hot water symbol, piggy bank and question mark representing tenant compensation after prolonged hot water loss.

by Readers Question

12:01 AM, 31st July 2026, 13 hours ago 3

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Landlord News Landlords Questions

Hi, I have two tenants in an all-electric property, and both elements in the hot tank failed. The thermal reset worked for a while, and I tried changing the thermostats, but neither solved the problem.

The repair took about six weeks in total to complete. Contributory factors were the contractor not being available and the tenant not willing for me to accompany a contractor.

I lent the tenants an urn so they could at least do the washing up. They have an electric shower, and the property has heating.

The two tenants are a gentleman who has some autistic issues and a lady who has various health issues. He has just moaned a bit in WhatsApp messages, with no formal complaint.

I don’t know whether they have any recourse under the tenancy agreement or the new Renters’ Rights Act. Any payment would be a goodwill one.

What do you think I should offer the tenants in compensation, if anything?

Thanks,

Mike

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Tags: electric hot water cylinder, hot water repair, Landlord responsibilities, tenant compensation

Comments

Dylan Morris

Member Since August 2016 - Comments: 1196

10:16 AM, 31st July 2026, About 3 hours ago

What are you thinking of compensating them for, loss of hot water out of the tap ? They have heating and an electric shower. And you’ve given them a hot water urn to use. I can’t see they have suffered any hardship here. Things break and landlords repair them as best they can, which you’ve done here. That’s life. Once you go down the compensation route you’re admitting liability and can open up a load of grief so don’t do that.

6 Report Comment Reply
Tabitha Walton

Member Since February 2016 - Comments: 2

11:19 AM, 31st July 2026, About 2 hours ago

I just wonder why they are so unwilling for you to accompany the contractor.. what are they trying to hide..??

1 Report Comment Reply
LaLo

Member Since October 2019 - Comments: 426

12:34 PM, 31st July 2026, About 31 minutes ago

Do what the government do, drag your feet!

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