Compliance checklist for landlords 2026

Gas safety

If the property has gas appliances, a Gas Safe registered engineer must check them every 12 months. Give existing tenants the record within 28 days of the check and new tenants a copy before they move in. Keep records of checks and remedial work.

Electrical safety

The fixed electrical installation must be inspected and tested at least every five years, or sooner if the report requires it. Give the Electrical Installation Condition Report to tenants within the applicable deadline and arrange remedial work in the required period.

EPC and minimum energy standard

A valid Energy Performance Certificate must be available when a property is marketed. Most privately rented homes in England currently need at least an EPC band E unless a valid exemption applies. Check the register and any future rule changes before planning improvements.

Alarms, deposits and right to rent

Check alarms at the start of a tenancy. Protect any tenancy deposit in an approved scheme within 30 days of receiving it and give the required information to the tenant. In England, complete a right-to-rent check for every adult occupier before the tenancy begins.

• Smoke alarm on each storey used as living accommodation
• Carbon monoxide alarm in a room with a fixed combustion appliance, excluding gas cookers
• Deposit protection certificate and prescribed information
• Dated right-to-rent records for adult occupiers

Documents and continuing duties

For new assured tenancies in England, give tenants the written key terms currently required, along with the EPC and relevant gas safety record at the correct time. Check whether the property needs an HMO, selective or additional licence. During the tenancy, keep safety checks current and respond to repair reports promptly.