Fire Safety
Unless the rented accommodation is a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) there are no specific fire regulations for residential tenanted properties in England and Wales. Although we do recommend a fire alarm is installed in every room and tested prior to lettings.
Inventories
Due to the introduction of the Tenants Deposit Scheme it is vital that landlords arrange to have an accurate and up to date inventory prior to the outset of any tenancy, as an inventory is vital should there be any problems when the time comes for your tenant to vacate the premises.
Insurances
As a landlord you are required have 'Buildings Insurance', but should you leave any contents you will need to insure them also, but you will need to advise your insurer that you are a 'Landlord' and not an 'Occupier'.
EPC energy performance certificate
A qualified energy assessor will need to carry out an inspection on your property. This is not an inspection you can fail although it may give you pointers on how to make your property more energy efficient. EPC certificates are available through Let Me now for £55.00.
Gas certification
A corgi registered engineer will need to carry out an inspection to assure that the property and its gas appliances are safe. Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 which came into force on 31 October 1998 and place duties mainly on installers, landlords and some gas suppliers. Gas certificateas are availabel through Let Me Now at £65.00.
Electrical certification
Landlords should ensure that the electrical installation (fixed wiring, etc) is safe to use. The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 requires landlords to ensure the electrical installation is safe when the tenancy begins and that it is maintained in a safe condition throughout that tenancy. The ONLY formally recognised way of achieving this is a Periodic Inspection Report.
