Broken Bath or Shower: Is the Landlord Responsible?

Is a bath or shower covered by repair duties?

Government repair guidance expressly identifies basins, sinks, baths and other sanitary fittings, including pipes and drains, as landlord responsibilities. A landlord-supplied shower may also fall within contractual or fitness duties.

Does it matter if another washing facility works?

Yes. An unusable shower where a safe bath remains is different from having no reasonable personal-washing facility. Disability, age, pregnancy and medical needs can make a nominal alternative unsuitable.

What about leaks and defective sealant?

The cause matters. Failed pipework, installation defects or decayed building fabric commonly concern the landlord. Minor tenant-like maintenance and damage caused by misuse may be treated differently. Report early to limit damage.

What evidence helps?

Keep photographs, repair messages, plumber findings and dates the facility was unusable. Record why any alternative was unsuitable and retain receipts for reasonable extra costs.

Can reduced bathroom use support compensation?

Potentially, where landlord breach and duration are proved. There is no automatic daily tariff. Severity, household needs and available alternatives matter; see loss of amenity.

This article provides general legal information only. It does not constitute legal advice on any specific case. Awaab's Law Claims Specialists is a trading name of Driscoll Kingston & Co Limited, authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA No. 839699).