Utility maintenance
It is your responsibility to keep the supply of water, gas, electricity, and heating in good repair and proper working order. Your tenants rely on these essential services for their day-to-day living.
Free from health and safety hazards
You should ensure your property stays free from serious health and safety hazards. Your tenants have the right to live in a safe environment, as stipulated in the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018. Learn more about potential hazards.
Structural integrity
It is your duty to maintain the structural integrity of the property. This includes the upkeep of the building’s foundation and exterior so it remains safe and secure for your tenants.
Repairs
Be prepared to carry out most property repairs. You should encourage your tenants to report any issues to you or your agent as soon as possible. Keep in mind that some repairs may be more urgent than others, so assess each situation accordingly.
Appliances and furniture
If you’ve provided appliances and furniture as part of the rental agreement, it’s your responsibility to ensure they are well-maintained and in good working order.
Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms
You should install smoke alarms on every floor and carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with appliances that use solid fuels like coal and wood. Examples of such appliances include boilers and wood burners. You should also make sure these alarms are functioning correctly at the beginning of the tenancy and are checked during property inspections.
Gas safety check
If your property has gas appliances you must arrange for an annual gas safety check conducted by a Gas Safe engineer to be done every year. This is essential to protect your tenants from potential gas-related hazards.
Electrical safety check (EICR)
Schedule an electrical safety check by a qualified and competent person every five years. Note that this requirement applies to new tenancies from July 1, 2020, and existing tenancies from April 1, 2021. Failure to have a valid EICR for your rental property could lead to financial paneities.
Respect tenant rights
Remember that your tenants have the right to quiet enjoyment of their home. You or your letting agent should never access the property without the tenants permission. Access the property only when necessary, provide at least 24 hours notice for visits like repairs, and always respect their privacy.
Property licensing
If your property is licensable, make sure you have the necessary licences in place. You must comply with licensing requirements to maintain the legal status of your rental property.
