Landlord Compliance Checklist
11/11/2025
As a landlord in the UK, complying with legal requirements is essential to avoid significant fines (up to £30,000) and potential legal action. The key areas of compliance cover safety, tenant documentation, and property management.
Pre-Tenancy and Ongoing Safety Compliance
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| Requirement | Action Needed | Frequency | Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas Safety | Arrange a check by a Gas Safe registered engineer for all appliances, pipes, and flues. | Annually | Provide a copy of the Landlord Gas Safety Record (CP12) to existing tenants within 28 days and to new tenants before they move in. |
| Electrical Safety | Ensure all fixed electrical installations are inspected and tested by a qualified person. | Every 5 years (or sooner if the report specifies) | Provide a copy of the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to all tenants before they occupy the property. |
| Fire Safety | Install at least one smoke alarm on every living storey and a carbon monoxide alarm in any room with a fixed combustion appliance (e.g., boiler, wood stove). | Alarms must be tested and in working order at the start of each new tenancy. Tenants are responsible for testing them regularly during the tenancy. | Keep records of testing at move-in. Ensure all supplied furniture meets fire safety regulations. |
| Energy Performance | Ensure the property has an EPC rating of E or higher (Note: this is expected to rise to a minimum of C for new and existing tenancies by 2025/2026). | Valid for 10 years | Provide a copy of the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to prospective and new tenants. |
| Legionella Risk | Conduct a risk assessment for Legionella bacteria in the water systems. | Regularly (review the assessment periodically) |
Keep a record of your assessment. |
Tenant and Documentation Compliance
| Requirement | Action Needed | Timing | Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Right to Rent Checks | Verify all adult occupiers' legal right to rent in the UK by checking original documents or using the Home Office online service. | Before the start of the tenancy | Keep secure copies of all checked documents. |
| Tenancy Deposit Protection | Protect the tenant's deposit in one of three government-approved schemes (Deposit Protection Service, MyDeposits, or Tenancy Deposit Scheme). | Within 30 days of receiving the deposit | Provide the tenant with the Prescribed Information (details of the scheme, how to reclaim the deposit, etc.). |
| 'How to Rent' Guide | Supply the latest version of the government's "How to rent: the checklist for renting in England" guide. | At the start of the tenancy (can be emailed as a PDF) | Keep proof that the guide was served to all tenants. |
| Tenancy Agreement & Inventory | Use a written, legally compliant Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) agreement (the most common type in England). Complete a detailed inventory and condition report. | Before the tenancy starts (sign and agree with the tenant) | Signed tenancy agreement and inventory report (with photos). |
Property Management and Legal Standing
- Property Ownership & Consent: If you have a mortgage, you must obtain consent from your lender to let the property.
- Landlord Insurance: Secure appropriate specialist landlord insurance, as standard home insurance is usually not sufficient.
- Property Licensing (HMO & Selective): Check if your property requires a licence from the local authority (mandatory for large HMOs with 5+ tenants from 2+ households, but also potential for additional or selective licensing in certain areas).
- Repairs and Maintenance: Ensure the property is safe and free from serious hazards (e.g., damp, mould, structural issues) under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018. You must give at least 24 hours' written notice before accessing the property for non-emergency repairs/inspections.
- Tax Obligations: Declare all rental income on a self-assessment tax return and keep detailed financial records.
Staying organised and keeping detailed records of all communications, inspections, and certificates is crucial for demonstrating compliance and avoiding penalties.
Regards
Property Vine
Letting Agents Romford
