If you're a shared owner, you're generally responsible for repairs and maintenance of your home. Depending on if you own a house, a flat, or have a new model shared ownership lease, the responsibilities and support available may be different.
We are responsible for repairs to the building structure of apartment blocks, communal areas and equipment – the cost of this is covered in your service charge.
What you’re responsible for
If I own a shared ownership house or flat, what repairs am I responsible for?
If you own a shared ownership house, you’re usually responsible for all repairs and maintenance, whether that's inside or outside. This may include:
- Internal repairs
- Plumbing and heating
- Electrical repairs
- Doors, windows and fixtures
- Decorating and general upkeep
If you own a shared ownership flat, your lease will explain which repairs you’re responsible for and what we look after. You’ll normally be responsible for repairs and maintenance to the inside of your home.
Top tip:
Check you lease before arranging major repair or maintenance work to understand your responsibilities. You can upload your lease to Stairpay below.
What is the new model shared ownership lease?
The new model shared ownership lease gives homeowners £500 per year to use towards repairs. It’s also covered by an initial repair period, where your landlord is responsible for external and structural repairs while you own less than 100% of your home. This only applies if you’ve bought a home built through the 2021-2026 Homes England funding programme.
Learn about the new model shared ownership lease
What is the initial repair period?
The initial repair period is a 10-year support period that starts from the date your lease begins. During this time, if you have a new model shared ownership lease and own less than 100% of your home, you could get help towards some repairs. It doesn’t cover every repair, and it won’t cover damage caused deliberately or by not looking after your home. Whether you can claim depends on your lease and the type of repair.
Find out more about the initial repair period
How can I check which lease I have?
- Read your lease agreement.
- Check your purchase documents.
- Get in touch with the Homeownership team at homeownership@midlandheart.org.uk or call our Hub team on 0345 60 20 540 if you’re unsure which lease you have.
Not sure who’s responsible for a repair?
Ask yourself:
- Is the repair inside my home? If yes, it’ll usually be your responsibility.
- Does it affect the building structure or a communal area? If yes, then we are usually responsible.
- Do I have a new model shared ownership lease? If yes, you may be able to get support with repairs costs through the initial repair period.
How do I report a repair?
- Call us: If your repair is urgent, call our Hub team on 0345 60 20 540, Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm. Outside these times, your call will be transferred to our out-of-hours service for emergency repairs only.
- Message us on Facebook: Head to our Facebook page to book your repair.
