Responsibilities Of Private Landlords Near Putney

As a private landlord in London, you’re legally obliged to meet certain health, safety and financial standards. The consequences of falling short can be serious, so take this opportunity to catch up on the latest guidance.

Many landlord legal requirements apply to every private London rental property, from the period terraces of Fulham to the new build apartments of Vauxhall and Canary Wharf. In some areas, you may need to meet additional standards too.
Our guide introduces you to the essential requirements and tips on best practice. Read on to find out about the responsibilities of private landlords.

Health and safety requirements

Landlords are legally obliged to meet health and safety requirements for fire safety, gas and electricity, smoke and carbon monoxide, and other potential health hazards.

Gas & Electrical Safety

Landlords are responsible for arranging a gas safety check before the tenancy begins, then an annual gas safety check, by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Any gas appliances, pipework, flues and chimneys must be in good working order, and faults should be rectified promptly. You must also provide tenants with a copy of the Gas Safety Certificate.

You must instruct a qualified electrical engineer to carry out an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every five years. Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is not legally required, but is strongly recommended.

Fire safety

Take care of your fire safety responsibilities to tenants by ensuring any furniture supplied meets current safety standards and fitting smoke alarms.

Smoke & carbon monoxide safety

You must fit smoke alarms on each floor and carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with fuel burning appliances to meet your legal obligations to tenants. A heat alarm is also recommended (but not required) for the kitchen. You must ensure they’re functioning well at the beginning of the tenancy, and carry out repairs or replacements promptly if an alarm stops working.

HHSRS hazard ratings

Under the Housing Act 2004, tenants can request a council inspection of their private rented accommodation under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS). To meet their safety and security responsibilities, landlords must keep the utilities, structure and exterior well-maintained, carry out legionella risk assessments, and ensure the property is well-lit, warm, dry, and free from damp and mould.

Following EPC and MEES rules

All landlords need to instruct an accredited assessor to inspect the property and issue an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before marketing the property to tenants. EPC ratings indicate the property’s energy efficiency. Rental properties must achieve an EPC rating of E or higher, known as the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES). If you don’t meet MEES regulations, you will need to make improvements to raise your score unless you qualify for an exemption.

Financial obligations

Landlords are responsible for protecting their tenants’ deposits and handling rental income and expenditure correctly. You must place tenancy deposits in a government-approved deposit protection scheme within 30 days for all new assured shorthold tenancies. If you don’t, your tenants can claim for compensation.

You must take out a buy-to-let mortgage – a domestic mortgage won’t be suitable. Landlords also need to declare all rental income and pay tax on it.

Property maintenance

Your landlord responsibilities include fixing maintenance issues and arranging repairs, and ensuring any appliances you supply are safe to use. However, the tenancy agreement can clarify who is responsible for further repairs.

Rules for different tenancy types

The rules for regulated tenancies, HMOs and other types of tenancy can differ. For example, you can only change the terms or rent of a regulated tenancy. HMO landlords need to follow additional rules and may need to apply for a licence. This also applies to rental properties in selective licensing scheme areas. There are several specified streets in Hammersmith and Fulham and Tower Hamlets, so local landlords may be affected. Check your local council’s website for full details.

Vetting tenants

As well as vetting tenants and conducting reference checks, landlords are legally responsible for carrying out right to rent checks. You can’t discriminate – check that all tenants are allowed to stay in the UK before the tenancy begins, unless an exemption applies.

Landlord also have an obligation to provide tenants with the government’s How to Rent guide, which outlines their rights and responsibilities. You should also carry out a detailed inventory to avoid disputes about wear and tear or damage to the property.

Conclusion

A good letting agent can offer advice and support you in meeting your responsibilities as a landlord. At Chartwell Residential, we are dedicated to providing an excellent standard of service to South West London landlords. Contact us today – we will be happy to discuss your requirements.