A broken opening can create injury, intrusion, weather and fire-escape problems. The first attendance may make it safe, while the final replacement needs further specification or permission checks.
Assess the immediate problem
- Ask whether anyone is injured, glass is unstable or the home cannot be secured.
- If damage follows a crime, preserve relevant evidence and use the appropriate police route.
- Consider occupants' needs and whether the affected room can be used safely.
Specify temporary and permanent work
- Use a suitable contractor for safe removal or protection.
- Check the replacement's glazing, ventilation, opening and any building or lease requirements.
- Explain how long the temporary arrangement is expected to last and who will follow it up.
Verify completion
- Check security, safe opening and closing, weather resistance and any required escape function.
- Resolve sharp edges, debris and damaged finishes.
- Decide responsibility for cost from evidence separately from making the home safe.
Example: a boarded bedroom window is the only escape opening
A fictional temporary repair would block a required escape window. Obtain competent advice on a safe alternative and occupancy arrangements. Temporary security must not create a different serious hazard.
What to do
- Assess injury, intrusion and weather risks.
- Arrange competent temporary protection.
- Complete a suitable permanent repair and verify operation.
Evidence to keep
- Report, safe photographs and temporary-work details.
- Specification, permissions if needed and completion record.
Sources and guidance
- Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act: landlord guideUK Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Fitness of homes for human habitation: landlord guidanceWelsh Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Repairing Standard: statutory guidanceScottish Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Building regulations approvalUK Government · checked 20 October 2026