Landlord responsibilities

Whether you’re an established landlord with ten rental properties or are considering making your first move into the buy to let market, it’s important to be aware of your legal, and moral, responsibilities as a landlord.

Gas

• Any gas equipment, such as fires and boilers, must be inspected by a registered Gas Safety engineer annually, with certification provided to prove they have been approved as safe for use. 

Electric

• As the landlord you must commission an electrical inspection check and report to determine that the property’s wiring, fittings and appliances are safe to use.

Fire

• Access to escape routes must be present at all times
• A smoke alarm needs to be present on each storey of the property
• Carbon monoxide alarms must be provided in any room with a solid fuel burning appliance, such as a coal fire
• Any furniture and furnishings provided must be classified as fire safe.

Energy

• An EPC – Energy Performance Certificate – is needed for when tenants move in, but it’s also required for prospective tenants to view, or you could face a fine
• It states the energy efficiency of the property and provides helpful advice on how it can be improved. A property must have a rating of at least E

Right to rent

• Before you agree a new tenancy, right to rent checks are legally required. This involves checking that a prospective tenant has the legal right to live in the UK. A reputable estate agent will make sure these checks are undertaken property.

Established and respected lettings agents such as smarthomes can advise you fully on all your obligations, their associated costs and timings, and can arrange for all the required checks and certification to be undertaken by trusted local tradespeople.

Click here to find out more about the smarthomes’ award-winning approach to lettings in Solihull and the surrounding area:
https://www.smart-homes.co.uk/services/letting-agent-solihull

Article source:
https://www.which.co.uk/money/mortgages-and-property/buy-to-let/becoming-a-landlord-ak37s4b81j0b