How to log a maintenance request
What counts as urgent, what to include, and how repairs get actioned.
Know what counts as urgent
Some issues can’t wait. No hot water, no heating, a serious leak or flooding, gas smells, electrical faults, or anything that makes the home unsafe or insecure is urgent, report it immediately by phone as well as in writing. Everything else, a dripping tap, a sticking door, a worn seal, is routine but still worth logging promptly before it becomes a bigger problem.
Give the details that speed it up
The clearer your request, the faster the right tradesperson is sent. Describe exactly what’s wrong, where it is, and when it started, and attach photos or a short video. Mention anything that makes it worse or any safety concern. A vague “something’s leaking” takes far longer to resolve than “water is dripping from under the kitchen sink when the tap runs.”
Make access easy
Repairs stall when tradespeople can’t get in. Let your manager know your availability and whether they can use a key or need to arrange a time with you. Being flexible and responsive often means same-week fixes rather than long waits, and it keeps small jobs from dragging on while you live around them.
Keep a record
Log every request in writing and keep copies, including dates and any replies. Most repairs are handled quickly, but if something urgent is ignored you have options, from issuing a formal notice to applying to the Tenancy Tribunal. Never withhold rent to force a repair, that can put you in breach; use the proper process instead.