UK Landlord Forum / Life

I am having to replace a boundary wall which has become unsafe. The builder has requested access to water and electricity. The tenant has said they don't want to allow access to the rear where the outside tap is located, let alone the shed for an electric socket. They are highly security conscious!!!!!! They are worried about theft and damage because they don't know the builder. At no point does he need access to the house. (I have agreed to pay for water and electricity used). They think if they give access it will invalidate their insurance. Any advice would be gratefully received.

The tenancy contract states: 9.34. To permit the Landlord, and any superior landlord, or the Landlord's employees/agents at all reasonable times by giving the Tenant 24 hours notice (except in an emergency):
to enter the Premises to inspect the same and the Landlord's furniture and effects therein (if any) and to carry out any works of maintenance or repair to the Premises or elsewhere which the Landlord may consider necessary. If the Tenant fails to allow access and such failure causes the Landlord to incur costs, the Tenant shall be liable or all reasonable losses resulting as a consequence.

Have you offered to supervise the builder if the tenant can't or won't do it? It won't invalidate their insurance. The insurance just won't pay out if the builder caused the theft or damages as they're authorised guest. You can clarify that you would be paying for any potential theft or damages, which you're probably liable for anyway as they're your builders. I'll just make sure to evidence that nothing has been damaged or taken.

What do the builder actually need the water and electricity for? Maybe you can work around the electricity point by hiring a generator. Not so sure about water.

If the tenant still say no, assuming you have actually gave the required notice, then there's not a lot you can do other than go to court for a court order for access which if you're talking about a wall that could cause injuries not just to the tenant but 3rd parties you may well have to consider doing.