As a new landlord, there are a lot of things to consider when letting out a property. One of the most important things to think about is the safety of your tenants. Not only is it your legal responsibility to ensure that your property meets certain safety standards, but it is also your moral obligation as a landlord.

Here are the 10 essential safety requirements that every new landlord should know:

1. Gas Safety

All gas appliances and flues in a rented property must be checked for safety every 12 months by a Gas Safe registered engineer. You must provide your tenants with a copy of the Gas Safety Certificate before they move in, and ensure that any necessary repairs are carried out.

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2. Electrical Safety

All electrical installations and appliances in a rented property must be safe and in good working order. You should have a qualified electrician carry out an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every 5 years, or sooner if there have been any significant changes to the wiring or appliances in the property.

3. Fire Safety

You must provide working smoke alarms on every floor of the property, and carbon monoxide alarms in any rooms containing solid fuel burning appliances. You should also ensure that all furniture and furnishings meet fire safety standards.

4. Water Safety

You should ensure that the water supply to your property is safe, and that any hot water systems are maintained and regularly serviced. You should also check for any leaks or dampness that could lead to mould growth.

5. Security

You should provide adequate locks and security measures to ensure that your property is secure. This includes ensuring that all windows and doors have locks, and that any communal areas are well-lit and secure.

6. Asbestos

If your property was built before 2000, it may contain asbestos. You should have a survey carried out to determine whether there is any asbestos present, and take appropriate action to ensure that it is managed safely.

7. Legionella

You must carry out a risk assessment for legionella, which is a type of bacteria that can cause Legionnaires’ disease. This is especially important if your property has a water storage tank, or if the hot water temperature is below 60°C.

8. Energy Performance

You must provide your tenants with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before they move in. This will show the energy efficiency of the property, and give recommendations on how to improve it.

9. Deposit Protection

You must protect your tenant’s deposit in a government-approved scheme, and provide them with details of where it is held within 30 days of receiving it.

10. Right to Rent

You must check that your tenants have the right to rent in the UK. This includes checking their immigration status and identity documents.

Conclusion

As a new landlord, it is essential that you are aware of your responsibilities when it comes to safety. By following these 10 essential safety requirements, you can ensure that your property is safe and well-maintained, and provide your tenants with a comfortable and secure home.

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