Landlord Compliance Guide from Adams Estates

Letting your property entails various legal responsibilities. At Adams Estates, we prioritize safety regulations and legislation to protect both tenants and landlords. Here's a comprehensive guide to key safety regulations and landlord responsibilities when renting out a property.

1 Anti-Money Laundering

Standard checks confirm the identity and authenticity of any funds involved in a transaction. HMRC mandates estate agents to obtain and hold identification and proof of address for all customers, including landlords and prospective tenants. Agents must also identify beneficiaries of the transaction and may request the source or destination of funds when appropriate.

2 Cleaning and Check-In

Rental properties must be clean at tenant move-in. A check-in documents the property's state at this time, minimizing disputes and delays at tenancy end. Adams Estates can arrange professional cleaning and an independent inventory to record the property's condition inside and out.

3 Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)

An EICR inspects your property's electrical systems for safety and condition, covering consumer units, bonding, lighting, switches, and sockets. Required for new tenancies in England and mandatory for all let properties from April 1, 2021, an EICR must be renewed every 5 years. Adams Estates can assist in obtaining and renewing your EICR.

4 Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

An EPC measures a property's energy efficiency (rated A-G) and is valid for 10 years. It must be conducted by a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor and is legally required before advertising the property. If your EPC is expiring or non-existent, Adams Estates can facilitate obtaining a new one.

5 Fire and Furnishings Regulations

Landlords must adhere to fire safety requirements, ensuring tenants' protection from fire and smoke damage. Install smoke alarms on every storey and carbon monoxide alarms where solid fuels are used. Furnished properties must comply with safety standards, with all provided furniture being fire resistant. Non-compliance can result in severe penalties. Adams Estates can advise on specific fire safety requirements.

6 Gas Safety Certificates

Properties with gas must have gas appliances, flues, and supply points tested annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. A Gas Safety Certificate, renewed every 12 months, must be given to tenants within 28 days of the check. Adams Estates can help arrange these checks.

7 House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Regulation & Licensing

Properties occupied by three or more people from two or more households, sharing facilities, are considered HMOs. HMO landlords must comply with additional rules and obtain a licence if required. Large HMOs (5+ people sharing) need mandatory licences. As specialists in the field of managing HMO’s Adams Estates can provide detailed HMO guidance and consultation.

8 Housing, Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)

Part of the Housing Act 2004, the HHSRS allows local authorities to assess property conditions and potential hazards to maintain private rental standards. Adams Estates can help you understand how HHSRS applies to your property.

9 How to Rent Guide

The How to Rent Guide, a checklist for renting in England, must be provided to new tenants at tenancy start. It offers practical advice for the rental process. The guide is available on gov.uk, or you can contact Adams Estates for more information.

10 Income Tax

Landlords must pay tax on rental income, whether UK-based or overseas. Specific rules apply to overseas landlords. Consult the Inland Revenue’s website for details, and check out our guide for more information.

11 Legionella Risk Assessment

Landlords must assess their properties for Legionnaires' Disease risk. Regular water system usage generally minimises risk. Adams Estates can offer advice and arrange risk assessments.

12 Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)

PAT inspections ensure portable electrical appliances are safe. Although not legally required in England and Wales (except for HMOs), it is best practice. Adams Estates can arrange PAT certification for your property’s appliances.

13 Repairs

Landlords are responsible for property exterior and structure maintenance, including roofs, walls, and utilities. Adams Estates' Fully Managed package handles all maintenance issues, relieving you of this burden our in-house teams of specialist get the job done.

14 Right to Rent

The Right to Rent scheme ensures tenants have a legal right to reside in the UK. Landlords must verify tenants’ ages and legal statuses. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties. Adams Estates includes Right to Rent checks in our referencing process.

15 Tenancy Deposit Scheme (Mydeposits)

Landlords must register tenant security deposits with an approved Tenancy Deposit Scheme to protect the tenant’s money. Deposits must be returned in full at tenancy end unless there are disputes. Adams Estates' Fully Managed and Rent Collection services handle all deposit protection aspects.