Advice for Landlords
The following is useful guidance for Landlords and potential Landlords:
Discrimination
It is illegal to discriminate against a tenant because of their sex, race, religion or disability.
Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1995
These regulations cover all appliances supplied. The appliances must be safe and instruction booklets available. There is no statutory testing interval, but it is important that regular checks are carried out.
The penalty for non-compliance can be a fine of up to £5,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment.
Furniture and Furnishings (Fire & Safety) Regulations 1988
All furniture and furnishings in rented properties must pass the “match and cigarette” test. All upholstered furniture e.g. mattresses, sofas must have a permanent label sewn in which confirms that it satisfies the regulations.
Gas and Electricity
In certain circumstances Landlords will install gas or electricity prepayment meters. Regulations control the charges that may be raised. We can advise you on these should you have coin or token prepayment meters.
Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations 1998
All gas installations in rental properties must be checked annually. The check must be performed by a registered CORGI gas engineer, who will issue a certificate when the appliances pass the test. It is the Landlord’s responsibility to ensure that the check is performed and to retain all relevant information (including certificates).
The penalty for non-compliance can be a fine of up to £5,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment.
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)
Additional regulations (e.g. fire precautions) apply to HMOs and they must be registered with the local council. We can advise you if your property falls into such a category.
Registration of Tenants with Letting Agencies
The Accomodation Agencies Act 1953 governs the registration by tenants with letting agencies.
Repairs
Landlords are generally responsible for keeping the accommodation that they let in good order. Tenants should therefore be supplied with the landlord or managing agents phone number and address.
Rubbish
Landlords have an obligation to ensure that there are satisfactory arrangements in place for the removal of waste.
Sockets etc. (Safety) Regulations 1994
These regulations require that equipment is safe to use and will not cause danger
Student Occupation
Many insurers consider that occupation is a “material change of circumstances” and require notification if a property is to be occupied by students. We can help and advise you if you wish to let your property to students.
Utilities
Landlords have an obligation to ensure that all installations for the supply of water, electricity and gas are kept in good working order.
