We understand that over time there will be some deterioration due to the normal ageing process and use of the property. This deterioration is called 'fair wear-and-tear' and you won't be charged for repairs and maintenance related to this.
What can be recharged?
Some damage to property occurs as a result of deliberate action by a tenant, household member or visitor. Bridge Housing tenants are responsible for reporting all damage to Bridge Housing. This will enable Bridge Housing to maintain properties to a satisfactory standard.
Damage to the premises that is the tenant's responsibility includes:
- Damage that is intentional
- Failure to take care to prevent damage (neglect)
- Failure to keep the premises in a reasonably clean condition
- Failure to restore the property to the condition it was in at the start of the tenancy, after allowing for fair wear and tear.
The following types of damage are typical of incidents where the tenant may be responsible for Tenant Repair Costs:
- Broken windows · punctured internal cabinet doors and walls
- Burns or other damage to carpets that cannot be considered fair wear and tear
- Broken and damaged clotheslines and hoists
- Broken locks or where keys have not been returned at the end of a tenancy
- Damaged /missing doors and security screens
- Damage to toilets and basins
- Sewer chokes caused by items flushed down the toilet, such as sanitary pads, nappies or toys
- Any costs associated with the removal of tenant property such as furniture or vehicles left behind at the end of the tenancy
- Any unauthorised or unsatisfactory additions/modifications made to a property.
Criminal damage
Any repairs required as a result of criminal (intentional) damage will not be charged to you so long as you have reported the damage to the police and can provide a Police Event Number.