Essential Legal Requirements for Every Landlord

Essential Legal Requirements for Every Landlord

• Check Local Licensing Rules
  Confirm whether your property requires a mandatory, additional, or selective licence from the local authority.

• Obtain Permission to Let
  If your property is mortgaged, leasehold, or subject to insurance conditions, ensure you have written consent to rent it out.

• Provide a Valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
  Every rental property must achieve at least an E rating, and tenants must receive a copy of the EPC before moving in.

• Meet Safety Standards

  • Supply a Gas Safety Certificate annually.

  • Arrange an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every five years.

  • Fit smoke alarms on each floor and carbon monoxide alarms where required.

• Protect the Tenant’s Deposit
  Register the deposit in a government-approved scheme within 30 days and provide the tenant with the prescribed information.

• Complete Right to Rent Checks
  Verify and document the immigration status of every adult occupier.

• Provide the Correct Documents
  At the start of the tenancy, supply:

  • A signed tenancy agreement

  • The Government’s “How to Rent” guide

  • Gas and EPC certificates

  • Deposit protection details

• Comply with the Tenant Fees Act 2019
  Only charge permitted fees, such as rent, refundable deposits, or agreed early termination costs.

• Maintain and Repair the Property
  Under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords must keep the property’s structure, exterior, plumbing, heating, and sanitation in good repair.

• Use Valid Eviction Notices
  Before serving a Section 21 or Section 8 notice, make sure all legal and safety requirements are met — otherwise, the notice could be invalid.

• Report Rental Income Correctly
  Declare all rental income and ensure your systems comply with Making Tax Digital where applicable.