Accidental toilet damage - what is tenant liable for

[samj8042]

My niece dropped a perfume bottle on the toilet cistern tank cover, and being ceramic a corner piece chipped off. Its an old toilet so not easy getting a replacement lid possibly (£75) or full toilet replace £450. in this situation what is she liable for, could she just repair the lid with a good ceramic porcelain adhesive. If this is not acceptable what would the landlord fairly expect to happen ?

Thanks in advance

Sam  

[BankFodder]

I think the first thing you need to find out is whether she is in this property for the long-term and whether she wants to keep good relations with her landlord.

I would say that a repair using glue will be not acceptable. I would be looking round for a replacement lid – and maybe you can find one on eBay.

The landlord is entitled at least to that. If you can't find one that matches the system then the landlord would be reasonable in requiring a completely new toilet although deductions would have to be made for the length of time that your landlord has had the toilet without any problems.

So, if the toilet has been in place for 20 years – and if your landlord expected to have the toilet for another 20 years then your liability might be 50% of the cost of replacement including installation.

I think the thing to do is to open a very friendly dialogue with the landlord begin by apologising. Better to tell it yourself than have it found accidentally later on

[stu007]

Hi

I have to agree with Bankfodder on this and it is also best to be upfront with the Landlord.

As for the toilet cistern cover as mentioned have a look on ebay or do an internet search for local reclamation or salvage yards in your area also

[Andyorch]

Normally the Landlords Building Insurance would cover it.

[stu007]

Hi

Yes I agree the Landlords Insurance may cover this but the Landlord could take a hit with the Insurance Company when they come to renew increasing the Landlords premiums.

The issue is the damage was caused by the Tenant that is in residence at present although accidental it was still damage they caused.

 

[unclebulgaria67]

Replacement toilet cistern lid should not be difficult to find if they are standard colour. There are reclamation yards that hold large numbers of old bathroom fittings. 

Think I would try to find replacement over a few weeks and then if one cannot be found to contact landlord.