Different question about yet another water leak

Hi all

I own a first floor flat and I recently found out that a pipe feeding my flat was leaking into downstairs which is rented and managed by a letting agent.

Usual thing, who pays for the repair etc etc.

Anyway, I have agreed to pay for the repair as it was my responsibility - job done. However, the lettings agent have now said that they want me to pay for redecoration too. Here's the question....

As soon as I was alerted to the leak it was repaired and no further damage was done. However, since the leak went on for a number of months without me knowing (judging by the damage which I have photos of, the wood was rotten to the core and the plasterboard was like paper) I am refusing to pay for the redecoration as I believe that if the problem had been reported to me earlier the damage would not be as extensive.

Am I correct in thinking that the agent has a duty of care in this instance? I believe that the property should have been routinely inspected. The previous tenants have since left and to be fair the letting agents may never have been told but am i right in thinking that overall they would now have responsibility?

Is there a clause in most lettings contracts that states the agent needs to be informed by the tenant of any damage being caused by a neighbouring property?

Am i being unreasonable in this instance?

Thanks for your help inadvance

EDIT insurance is a no go since it is 'wear and tear'