Information for first time landlords

There are numerous things to be aware of if you wish to let your property out. These can include checking with your mortgage lender (if the property is mortgaged) to ensure they have no objections to you letting, and ensuring your financial obligations (such as tax and benefits) are all correct and in order.

There are some rules around renting properties. The government has produced a guide for landlords called how to let (GOV.UK) which we would recommend you read. 

Some of the basics you will need to do are:

• Ensure the property is fit for human habitation, free from significant hazards when the tenancy commences and remains fit and free from hazards throughout the tenancy 
• Abide by the provisions in the Tenant Fees Act 2019, which bans charging unfair fees to tenants in connection with a tenancy and caps tenancy – and holding – deposits
• Protecting tenancy deposits in a government-approved scheme. For futher information please visit tenancy deposit protection (GOV.UK)
• Providing tenants with a copy of the how to rent: the checklist for renting in England (GOV.UK)
• Keeping the property in a good state of repair. This includes, but is not limited to, ensuring the property is free from damp and mould. Following the death of  Awaab Ishak in 2020, the government has produced a guidance document for all landlords on how to understand the causes and addressing damp and mould in their properties. The guidance can be found by visiting understanding and addressing the health risks of damp and mould in the home (GOV.UK)
• Carrying out gas safety checks and giving a copy of the certificate to the tenant(s) before the start of the tenancy and annually thereafter
• Obtaining an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), if required, and giving a copy to the tenant at the earliest opportunity.Currently EPCs must show a minimum rating of no lower than E is met
• Ensuring electrical installations and appliances are safe by getting an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) completed before the tenancy commences and then again every five years
• Installing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. For further information: smoke and carbon monoxide alarms: explanatory booklet for landlords (GOV.UK)
• Making sure that the tenant has the correct contact details for you and/or your agent, if you plan to use one, including a telephone number they can use in case of an emergency. Under section 48 Landlord and Tenant Act 1987, you are required to provide your tenant with your name and an address (which must be in England or Wales) where they can serve any notices on you. The rent due under the tenancy agreement will not be ‘lawfully due’ until you have done so

Last updated: 13/11/2023 10:05