UK landlord compliance checklist (England)
This checklist covers England; Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland run materially different regimes. Several of these items are not just good practice: missing them can block a valid Section 21 notice or trigger penalties of multiple times the deposit.
Before the tenancy starts
Right to Rent checks completed for all adult occupiers, with copies retained.
A current gas safety certificate (CP12) exists and is given to the tenant before they move in.
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is in place, renewed at least every five years, and supplied to the tenant.
The EPC meets the current minimum rating and a copy is provided.
The current version of the government How to Rent guide is served.
Smoke alarms are fitted on every storey and carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with fixed combustion appliances, tested on day one.
Deposits and fees
The deposit is capped as required by the Tenant Fees Act and protected in a government-approved scheme within 30 days, with the prescribed information served.
No prohibited fees are charged; only permitted payments under the Tenant Fees Act are taken.
If an agent handles money, client money protection membership is in place and disclosed.
During the tenancy
HMO licensing, and any selective or additional licensing operated by the local council, is checked and held where required.
A legionella risk assessment has been considered and recorded.
Repairs are handled within reasonable timescales and records kept, including under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act.
Any notice seeking possession uses the current prescribed form, and the pre-conditions above are satisfied first.
This is general information, not legal advice. Rules change and differ across the UK nations; confirm the current requirements with a qualified adviser.
General information, not legal or financial advice.