Whether you're an experienced investor or a first-time landlord, it's easy to lose sight of everything that needs to be done. Some criteria are required by law, others just make sense.
To stay compliant you must check off all of the following:
Property Centre Guide on Landlord Compliance & All You Need to Know
Gas Safety Certificate
All gas appliances must undergo an annual safety inspection performed by a Gas Safe licenced engineer. You must provide a copy of the check to the tenant when they move in or within 28 days of any check.
Energy Performace Certificate
A valid EPC from an accredited assessor is required for the property. Band E is the bare minimum (unless you have an exemption certificate). Give the tenant a copy. The EPC must be displayed in the house in Scotland.
Licensing
You must obtain a licence from your local council if your property is an HMO. Selective licencing is also used by some authorities in particular instances. Check to see if you’re affected.
Electrical Safety
A copy of the EICR check must be sent to your tenants, and it must be performed at least every five years. All appliances need to undergo PAT testing.
Fire Safety
Both smoke and carbon monoxide alarms must be installed and tested in accordance with fire safety rules.
Right to Rent
You must carry out Right to Rent checks on the potential tenant and any adult who will be living with them.
Anti-money Laundering Checks
You should be aware that all letting agents are required to conduct due diligence (CDD) checks on prospective tenants and landlords. Your agent must make sure they "know their customer" in order to fulfil their obligations. CDD must be carried out on both the tenant and landlord for any agency agreement with a monthly rent of £8,800pcm (or equivalent amount) or more.
Deposit Protection
All deposits must be protected by a government-approved plan, and you must inform the tenant of the facts. Also, you have a legal obligation to give your tenants the Prescribed Information within 30 days of getting their security deposit. Ensure that you provide terms and conditions (if applicable).
How to Rent Guide
You must give the tenant an up-to-date copy of the guide.
Meet all HHSRS Standards
The property must be free from serious hazards. Fix faulty structural elements. Ensure that drains and sanitary fixtures are operational. Inspect the ventilation, chimneys, and heating and hot water systems.
Other things to consider
While not yet part of current legislation, it makes sense to include these in your checklist:
- A written tenancy agreement
- A detailed inventory
- Rent and Legal Protection Insurance
