All the landlord legislation you need to know

At Armaani Estates, we want all landlords to understand their legal responsibilities clearly and avoid penalties. Below is a straightforward summary of key laws and regulations every landlord must know.

Key Landlord Legislation You Must Follow

1. Safety & Fire Regulations

• Properties must comply with fire safety standards to protect tenants.

• Failure can lead to prosecution and unlimited fines.

• Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are mandatory in every rental property. Alarms must be tested and documented at the start of every tenancy.

2. Gas Safety

• Annual Gas Safety Certificates are required for all gas appliances.

• Valid certificates must be provided before a tenancy begins and renewed yearly.

3. Electrical Safety

• Electrical installations must be inspected at least every five years.

• Landlords must provide tenants with a copy of the safety report within 28 days.

• Electrical equipment should be PAT tested regularly.

4. Deposit Protection

• Tenant deposits must be protected in a government-approved scheme within 30 days of receipt.

• Failure to protect deposits can lead to fines of up to three times the deposit amount.

5. Licensing & HMO Regulations

• Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) require a license.

• Renting out an unlicensed HMO can result in fines up to £30,000 and tenants reclaiming up to 12 months’ rent.

6. Fitness for Human Habitation

• Properties must meet fitness standards throughout the tenancy, covering damp, heating, ventilation, and general safety.

• Tenants can take legal action if the property is not fit for habitation.

7. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

• Properties must have an EPC rating of E or above to be legally rented.

• It’s unlawful to rent below this standard unless an exemption applies.

8. Right to Rent Checks

• Landlords must verify the legal right of tenants to live in the UK before renting.

• Penalties start at £1,000 for the first offence and can include fines up to £3,000 or imprisonment for repeated breaches.

9. Furniture & Furnishings Safety

• All soft furnishings must comply with fire safety regulations and carry the appropriate labels.

10. Tenant Fees Act Compliance

• Tenant fees are heavily restricted.

• Allowed charges include rent, capped deposits, holding deposits, and certain default fees.

Additional Legal Requirements

• Legionella Risk Assessments: Landlords must ensure water systems are safe from Legionnaire’s disease.

• Prescribed Hazards: Landlords must manage 29 housing health and safety hazards defined by law.

• The Debt Respite Scheme (Breathing Space): Landlords must respect periods when tenants have formal debt protection.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with any of these laws can lead to:

• Unlimited fines or penalties.

• Tenant compensation claims.

• Criminal prosecution.

• Rent repayment orders (up to 12 months’ rent).

• Potential imprisonment in severe cases.

How Armaani Estates Supports Landlords

At Armaani Estates, we take the stress out of legal compliance. Our expert team:

• Keeps you updated on all legislative changes.

• Ensures your property meets all safety and legal standards.

• Manages deposit protection and tenancy agreements professionally.

• Assists with licensing applications and safety checks.

• Provides transparent advice tailored to your property portfolio.

For full support or questions on your property’s compliance, contact your Armaani Estates agent today. Protect your investment, your tenants, and your peace of mind with Armaani Estates.