What a Landlord Should Legally Provide to Tenants: A Comprehensive Guide

As a landlord, it’s essential to understand your legal obligations and responsibilities towards your tenants. Providing a safe, comfortable, and well-maintained living space is not only good practice but also a legal requirement. Let’s explore what you should legally provide to your tenants in the UK:

1. Essential Documents and Information

1.1 How to Rent Guide

• Requirement: Your landlord or letting agent must provide you with a copy of the ‘How to rent’ guide.
• Purpose: This guide outlines essential information for tenants, including their rights, responsibilities, and the rental process.
• Access: You can find the latest version of the guide on the GOV.UK website.

1.2 Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

• Requirement: Landlords must provide an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for the property.
• Purpose: The EPC rates the property’s energy efficiency and provides recommendations for improvement.
• Access: Obtain the EPC from your landlord or check the EPC Register online.

1.3 Deposit Protection

• Requirement: Landlords must protect tenants’ deposits in a government-approved scheme.
• Purpose: Deposit protection ensures that tenants receive their deposit back at the end of the tenancy, provided they meet the terms of the agreement.
• Options: Common schemes include the Deposit Protection Service (DPS), MyDeposits, and the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS).

1.4 Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) Contract

• Requirement: Landlords should draw up an Assured Shorthold Tenancy contract.
• Purpose: The AST outlines the terms of the tenancy, including rent, duration, and responsibilities.
• Details: Ensure the contract covers essential aspects such as rent payment, notice periods, and maintenance responsibilities.

2. Safety and Maintenance

2.1 Gas Safety Certificate

• Requirement: If there is gas supplied in the property, landlords must provide a valid Gas Safety Certificate.
• Purpose: Regular gas safety checks ensure the safety of gas appliances and installations.
• Frequency: An annual gas safety check by a Gas Safe registered engineer is mandatory.

2.2 Electrical Safety

• Requirement: The electrical system and appliances must be safe.
• Consider: Request an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to verify safety.
• Appliances: Ensure appliances provided by the landlord (e.g., cookers, toasters) are also safe.

2.3 Fire Safety

• Requirement: Landlords must provide smoke alarms on each storey of the property.
• Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Install one in any room with a solid fuel-burning appliance.
• Escape Routes: Ensure tenants have access to clear escape routes.
• Fire-Safe Furniture: Furnish the property with fire-safe furniture and furnishings.

3. Additional Considerations

• Leicester City HMO Licensing: If the property is a large House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), comply with Leicester City Council’s licensing requirements.
• PAT Tested Appliances: While not mandatory, consider ensuring appliances (e.g., kettles, irons) are PAT tested for safety.

Remember, maintaining a positive landlord-tenant relationship and adhering to legal requirements contribute to a successful tenancy.