Commercial Periodic Tenancy (?) Repairing Liabilities

[JC180]

Hi Everyone,

I am advising (as a friend) the landlord of a small terrace of lockup shops.

One of the lockups was let at the end of 2003 for £130 pcm. There was nothing in writing whatsoever documenting this letting. Recently, without prior notification, the landlord received a bill from the tenant for £1,600 in respect of a repair to a roller shutter.

I assume the exclusive possession and monthly payment of rent creates a periodic tenancy, but what does statue or precedent say in relation to liability and protocol for repairs?


I would be very grateful for your assistance.


Many thanks

J

[MrShed]

Was there anything verbally agreed with the tenant regarding repair liability?

[JC180]

Originally Posted by MrShed

Was there anything verbally agreed with the tenant regarding repair liability?

Hi, thanks for your response.

I understand that the agreement was for the tenant to be liable for repairs. Although naturally this cannot be proven.

Regards

[Aequitas]

When it comes to commercial property, in the absence of agreement, there is no obligation on either party with respect to repair, except that the tenant has to use the property in a tenantlike manner, which includes minor repairs.

[JC180]

Thank you very much indeed for that aequitas,

Is this common law, or part of an act that can be quoted?

[Aequitas]

Originally Posted by JC180

Is this common law, or part of an act that can be quoted?

The common law.

[JC180]

Very much obliged, Thank you!