Rental properties are a great way to invest your money, whether that be for your children when they grow up or for your pension fund.
However, when letting a property, it is essential that you know what legislation you should be following, not doing so can have serious consequences.
Here we outline what needs to be done, by law, to let your property.
Electrical Safety Certificate
The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) 2020 regulations were passed in March 2018. This meant, any new tenancy from July 2020 and any existing tenancies from April 2021 must have a valid Electrical Safety Certificate. These are then required to be done every 5 years by a qualified party.
Gas Safety Certificate
Landlords are legally responsible for ensuring the gas safety of their property. The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 outlines what landlords must do to ensure all gas appliances are safe.
A gas safety certificate must be carried out annually, by a Gas Safe registered engineer. We also strongly advise a regular service of the gas appliances at the same time.
EPC (Energy Performance Certificate)
Every property that is let, must have an in-date Energy Performance Certificate. In 2015, the Government introduced measures to improve the energy efficiency of private rented property, under the Energy Act 2011.
Since 1st April 2019, landlords of domestic property with an EPC grading below an E, must carry out up to £3,500 (inc VAT) worth of works to improve the energy efficiency if they cannot obtain third party funding to meet the costs. If the landlord cannot improve their rating about an E, they should install the measures up to £3,500 and then apply for an exemption.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
There must be a carbon monoxide detector in every room where there is a fuel burning appliance such as a gas fire or gas hob. We also advise as best practice to have one placed near your boiler.
Smoke Alarms
There must be a working smoke alarm on every floor of the property. These are usually located in the hallways or on a landing.
Fire Safety (Furnished Properties)
If you are planning to let a property with furniture, you should note that soft furnishings should have the necessary fire safety tags. Should your items not have these, they should be removed from the property.
Here at Milne Moser, our fully managed service covers organising all the above as well as keeping on top of the ever-changing legislation involved when letting your property.
Ultimately, the responsibility is that of the landlord, so it is essential to entrust a qualified and experienced letting agent.
