Landlords' Responsibilities

Legal and Safety Responsibilities (Mandatory)
  1. Right to Rent Checks
    Verify tenants have the legal right to rent in the UK.
  2. Deposit Protection
    Protect deposits in a government-approved scheme (TDP) within 30 days of receipt.
  3. Gas Safety Certificate (CP12)
    Annual gas safety check by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
  4. Electrical Safety Checks
    Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) required every 5 years.
  5. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
    Must be rated E or above and shown to tenants before they move in.
  6. Fire Safety Compliance
    • Smoke alarms on every floor.
    • Carbon monoxide alarm in rooms with solid fuel appliances.
    • Fire-safe furniture (for furnished lets).
    • Clear escape routes.
  7. Repairs and Maintenance
    Keep the property in good repair (structure, plumbing, heating, electrics).
  8. Legionella Risk Assessment
    Carry out risk assessment for Legionnaires' disease (especially in HMOs).
  9. HMO Licensing (if applicable)
    Mandatory for houses in multiple occupation meeting certain criteria (e.g., 5+ tenants).
  10. Provide ‘How to Rent’ Guide
    Must give tenants the latest government-issued guide at the start of the tenancy.
  11. Tenancy Agreement
    Provide a written contract outlining rights and responsibilities (AST is most common).
  12. Protecting Tenant’s Belongings and Privacy
    Respect tenant’s right to "quiet enjoyment" and provide 24-hour notice before visits.
  13. Awaab’s Law (coming soon)
    Will require landlords to fix damp and mould within strict time limits.
  14. Compliance with Decent Homes Standard (future requirement)
    Expected to apply to PRS by 2035 or 2037 (currently only for social housing).
  15. Tax and Income Reporting
    Declare rental income to HMRC, and pay appropriate tax.
Administrative Responsibilities
  1. Register with Local Council (if required)
    Some areas have selective licensing schemes.
  2. Keep Records
    Maintain records of inspections, repairs, gas/electric certificates, and communications.
  3. Inventory and Check-in/Check-out Reports
    Helps resolve deposit disputes.
  4. Notify Insurance Provider
    Ensure you have appropriate landlord insurance.
  5. Inform Mortgage Lender (if applicable)
    Most lenders require consent for renting out a mortgaged property.
Tenant Management Responsibilities
  1. Handle Repairs Promptly
    Respond in reasonable time to tenant repair requests.
  2. Manage Anti-social Behaviour
    Take action if tenants cause serious disruption (especially in HMOs).
  3. Renewals or Ending a Tenancy
  • Serve valid Section 21 or Section 8 notice to end a tenancy legally.
  • Handle deposit return properly, deducting only justifiable costs.
  1. Allow Rent Payment Options
    Must not demand cash-only payments or discriminate in payment method.

Posted on Thursday, 4 September, 2025

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