Information for landlords

Anyone wishing to become a private sector landlord should be aware of the following  

• If your property is mortgaged you will need permission from your lender to let it. Some tenants may ask for proof of this as without it, their tenancy may be invalid.
  
  
• You will need to ensure that you have adequate buildings & contents insurance (where applicable) and advise your insurer that you are letting the property.
  
  
• Your property should be structurally sound with wiring, plumbing, heating and any appliances in good working order. These should be regularly serviced by an approved contractor.
  
  
• Smoke alarms must be fitted to each floor of the property.
  
  
• The interior and exterior of your property should be kept in good decorative order and all furnishings in good condition.
  
  
• The property will need to be thoroughly cleaned and gardens tidied before a new tenancy begins.
  
  
• If the property is left empty for any length of time, during the winter months, you will need to arrange for a plumber to drain the water system to help prevent damage caused by burst pipes.
  
  
• You will need to remove valuable or sentimental items from your property before the tenancy begins.
  
  
• Gas safety (Installation & Use) Regulations 1994 mean that all gas appliances in rented properties must be serviced and checked for safety annually by a CORGI registered installer. The installer will  provide a CORGI Landlord Certificate after each check, a copy of which must be provided to tenant/s.
  
  
• All properties must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). An EPC can only be provided by a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor or as part of a Home Information Pack. A copy of the EPC must be provided to all prospective tenants at the point when the property is ready for viewing.
  
  
• Furniture & Furnishings Fire (safety) Regulations 1988 (as amended) require Landlords to ensure that all soft furnishings meet certain safety standards.
  

page last updated 28/10/2009