Gas Safety Certificate: Annual inspection by Gas Safe registered engineer required for all properties with gas appliances.
Electrical Safety: EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) required every 5 years by qualified electrician.
Energy Performance: Valid EPC with minimum rating E required before letting.
Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Working smoke alarms on every storey, CO alarms where fuel-burning appliances present.
Tenancy Agreement: Written agreement compliant with current legislation and local requirements.
Deposit Protection: Tenant deposits must be protected in government-approved scheme within 30 days.
Prescribed Information: Tenants must receive deposit protection details within 30 days.
"How to Rent" Guide: Official government guide must be provided to all assured shorthold tenants.
Fitness for Habitation: Property must meet standards under Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018.
HHSRS Compliance: Property must be free from Category 1 hazards under Housing Health and Safety Rating System.
Adequate Facilities: Proper heating, insulation, ventilation, lighting, and water supply required.
Structural Safety: Property must be structurally sound with proper drainage and sanitation.
HMO Licensing: Mandatory licensing for Houses in Multiple Occupation (3+ tenants, 2+ households).
Selective Licensing: Required in designated areas - check with local authority.
Planning Permission: May be required for change of use to rental property.
Building Regulations: Compliance required for any structural alterations or conversions.
Landlord Insurance: Comprehensive policy covering property damage, liability, and loss of rent.
Tax Obligations: Declare rental income, understand tax reliefs and deductions available.
Local Authority Registration: Some councils require landlord registration schemes.
Professional Indemnity: Consider professional indemnity insurance for letting agents.
Right to Rent Checks: Verify tenant's legal right to rent in UK before tenancy begins.
Notice Periods: Comply with statutory notice periods for rent increases and evictions.
Quiet Enjoyment: Respect tenant's right to quiet enjoyment - 24 hours notice for inspections.
Fair Access: Comply with equality legislation - no discrimination in letting practices.
This checklist provides general guidance only and may not cover all requirements for your specific situation or location. Legal requirements can vary significantly between different local authorities and property types.
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Northfield House cannot be held responsible for any omissions or changes in legal requirements. This platform provides tools to help manage compliance but does not replace professional legal advice.