Being a landlord in England isn’t just about finding tenants and collecting rent—it comes with a range of legal responsibilities designed to keep renters safe and properties compliant. Whether you’re managing a single buy-to-let or a growing portfolio, these are the seven essential areas you can’t afford to overlook.
1. Keeping on Top of Electrical Safety
Since the introduction of the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must have a qualified electrician inspect a property’s electrical installation at least once every five years. You’ll need to provide your tenants with an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to prove everything is up to standard. This rule has applied to all tenancies since April 2021.
2. Fire & Carbon Monoxide Alarms
All rental properties must have at least one smoke alarm per storey, and if you have solid-fuel heating (like an open fire or a wood burner), a carbon monoxide detector is also mandatory. With upcoming changes to the regulations, gas boilers may soon require carbon monoxide alarms as well—so staying up to date is crucial.
3. Gas Safety Comes First
Gas appliances and systems must be inspected annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer, and tenants must receive the Gas Safety Certificate before moving in—and again after each yearly check. It’s a non-negotiable legal obligation with serious consequences if ignored.
4. Energy Performance Standards
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is required at the start of every tenancy. Not only must you give your tenants a copy, but the property also needs to meet at least EPC band E (unless it qualifies for an exemption). EPCs are valid for ten years and can be viewed online at gov.uk. They also provide useful tips for improving your property’s efficiency.
5. Right-to-Rent Checks
Landlords must verify that tenants are legally allowed to rent in England. This process—known as a Right-to-Rent check—isn’t always straightforward, which is why many landlords turn to letting agents for help. Failure to comply can result in hefty fines or even imprisonment, so it’s not worth cutting corners.
6. Deposit Protection
If you take a deposit from a tenant, it must be placed in a government-approved scheme within 30 days. You’ll also need to provide specific documentation outlining where and how it’s protected. Deposits are capped at five weeks’ rent, and higher deposits for pets or similar reasons are no longer permitted. Paperwork matters here, so keep it organised.
7. Financial Obligations
Income from rental properties is taxable, and in some cases, National Insurance may also apply. Seeking advice from a qualified tax adviser or accountant is always wise. You’ll also need buildings insurance, and many landlords opt for additional policies covering rent protection, legal expenses, and void periods.
Don’t Overlook These Extras
- Make sure any furniture or appliances provided are in good working order and safe.
- Handle repairs promptly—whether it’s a faulty boiler or a leaky tap.
- Remove serious hazards from the property before and during tenancies.
- Check that window blinds (if included) are compliant with safety standards (no looped cords).
- In some cases, landlords must also assess the property for the risk of Legionnaires’ disease.
One Final Tip
Before your tenants move in, make sure they receive the latest version of the government’s “How to Rent” guide. This must be supplied at the start of every tenancy—either as a printed document or via email (with their consent) as a PDF.
