Landlord Obligations

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Letting a property comes with a range of legal responsibilities, and at ROC Management, we are here to provide expert advice and guidance. Our team can help you fully understand your obligations and ensure you meet all the necessary requirements to let your property safely and successfully.

There are several essential requirements to consider when renting out your property. Below is a checklist of the key obligations:

Your property should be in a good state of repair and presented to a high standard. This includes:

• Ensuring the property is in good decorative order, both inside and out.
• The kitchen must be fully equipped with modern, working appliances.
• Bathrooms should be up to date, with all fixtures in good condition.
• Any outdoor space, such as gardens or balconies, should be well-maintained.

• All gas appliances, fittings, and installations must be in good condition and comply with Gas Safety regulations.
• Electrical installations and appliances must meet current safety standards under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) regulations.

• Working smoke alarms must be installed on every floor of the property.
• Carbon monoxide detectors must be fitted in any room where there is a solid fuel appliance (e.g., wood burning stoves).

• The property must have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E or above.

• Any furniture provided must comply with the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations. It must have been purchased in the UK and carry the necessary fire safety labels.

• You must check if you require any consents to let your property, such as approval from your mortgage provider, insurance company, or superior landlord (if applicable).

• Depending on the location of your property, you may need to apply for a licence to let it. Check with your local authority to see if this applies.

• You must have appropriate insurance in place, which typically includes buildings insurance, contents insurance, and public liability insurance.

• If you live outside the UK, you must register as a Non-Resident Landlord with HMRC, and ensure that any rental income is properly declared for tax purposes.

As a landlord, you must comply with various laws and regulations. Here are some of the key pieces of legislation that affect landlords:

• The Gas Safety (Installations and Use) Regulations 1998 – Ensures the safety of gas appliances.
• The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 – Mandates that electrical installations are safe and regularly inspected.
• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015 – Requires landlords to install and maintain smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
• The Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) (Amendment) Regulations 1993 – Requires that all furniture provided in rental properties complies with fire safety standards.
• Immigration Act 2014 – Requires landlords to check the immigration status of tenants.
• Money Laundering Regulations 2017 – Landlords must verify the identity of tenants and ensure compliance with anti-money laundering laws.
• Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 – Imposes responsibilities on landlords to maintain the property in a good state of repair.
• Safety Standards for Internal Blinds and Curtains – Regulations on the safety of internal blinds and curtains, to prevent injuries.
• Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) – Requires rental properties to meet a minimum energy efficiency rating of E or above.

If you have any questions regarding your responsibilities as a landlord, or if you're planning to become a landlord, we are here to help. Our team can guide you through your obligations and ensure you’re fully compliant with all relevant legislation.

Contact ROC Management Today for expert advice and support in letting your property successfully.