The Essentials
When preparing your property for the rental market, you need to make sure you know what you must do legally as a landlord.
Energy Performance Certificates
It is legal required now for all properties have an EPC when the property is being advertised and before a tenant moves in. If you do not have an EPC on your property we can arrange for this to be completed for you. The present legislation is the an EPC with a rating of ‘F’ of below is a fail and remedial action has to be taken before a tenancy may be allowed. It is therefore appropriate to ensure your property is assessed and improved within these limitations.
Gas Appliances
Every gas appliance and gas central heating system has to be inspected on an annual basis. They have to meet strict conditions and a safety record must be issued (this record or a copy must be kept with our files). We can arrange for the safety inspection to be carried out for you by our local gas engineer.
Furnishings
Any soft furnishings (chairs & beds etc) that are left in the property must comply with fire regulations, and a label clearly stating so should be attached. If not then the furnishings must be removed from the property.
Smoke Alarms & Carbon Monoxide Alarms
In October 2015 new regulations come into force requiring landlords to install smoke alarms on every floor of their rental property and test them at the start of every tenancy. Carbon Monoxide alarms are to be install in high risk rooms, such as those where a solid fuel appliance is situated.
Electrical Inspection Condition Report
After July 2020 it is a requirement to have a satisfactory certificate from a registered electrician . This must be given to the tenants before they occupy your property and within 28 days of the renewal of the certificate. Any remedial works stated by the electrical certificate must be done within 28 days or sooner. You must then get written confirmation that this has been done.
Water Safety Assessment (Legionella Risk Assessment Check)
It is legislation that all properties undergo a Water safety assessment. The guidance is that the assessment is conducted shortly before commencement of a Assured Shorthold Tenancy, especially if the property is empty.
Buildings Insurance
As a landlord you are still responsible for the building and accordingly the buildings insurance.