Updated October 2026
In short: there's no fixed number of hours written into law, but a total loss of electricity is an emergency, and landlords are expected to act straight away, typically within 24 hours. Your landlord must keep the electrical installation in repair. Deliberately cutting off your supply to pressure you to leave is a criminal offence.
First: is it the landlord's problem?
- Whole street out? It's a network power cut. Call 105, the free national power cut number.
- Prepayment meter run out? Top up, or contact your supplier about emergency credit.
- Trip switch down? Check the consumer unit. A repeatedly tripping circuit needs an electrician, and that's your landlord's responsibility.
- Wiring, sockets, consumer unit or meter tails faulty? This is a repair the landlord must deal with.
Your landlord's legal duties
- Under section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords must keep the installations for the supply of electricity in repair and proper working order.
- Private landlords must have the electrical installation inspected at least every five years and give you a copy of the report.
- The home must be free from serious hazards under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System, and a lack of power, heat or hot water can be one.
How quickly should it be fixed?
The law requires repairs within a "reasonable time", judged by how serious the problem is. Losing all power, especially if it also means no heating, hot water or refrigeration, is treated as an emergency. Most landlords and agents aim to attend within 24 hours. Social landlords now have legal timescales for emergency hazards under Awaab's Law, and similar duties are due to be extended to private renting.
When it's harassment or illegal eviction
If a landlord deliberately cuts off or withholds your electricity, gas or water to make you leave or to pressure you, that can be harassment or attempted illegal eviction under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977. Contact your council's tenancy relations or private-sector housing team immediately, and the police if you feel unsafe.
What to do now
- Report it in writing (email or text), with the date, time and what's happened.
- Keep evidence: photos, messages and receipts for extra costs.
- Chase quickly if there's no response within hours.
- Contact the council if the landlord doesn't act. They can inspect and serve notices.
- Get advice about compensation or rent reductions for prolonged loss of services.
Can I withhold rent?
Withholding rent is risky because it can lead to arrears and possession proceedings. Get advice first. In some cases there are lawful routes to recover repair costs or claim compensation.
This guide gives general information for tenants in England and isn't legal advice. For your own situation, contact Shelter, Citizens Advice or a housing solicitor.
For landlords
Fraser Bond's property management service includes 24/7 emergency repair handling and compliance tracking, including five-yearly electrical inspections.
