The checklist
| Requirement | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gas safety check (CP12) | Every 12 months | Gas Safe registered engineer; copy to tenant |
| Electrical inspection (EICR) | At least every 5 years | Fix urgent faults within 28 days; copy to tenant |
| Energy Performance Certificate | Valid 10 years | Minimum E now; C required by 1 October 2030 |
| Smoke alarms | Working on day one of each tenancy | At least one on every storey used as living space |
| Carbon monoxide alarms | Working on day one | Any room with a fixed combustion appliance (not gas cookers) |
| Deposit protection | Within 30 days of receipt | DPS, mydeposits or TDS; give prescribed information |
| Right to Rent check | Before the tenancy starts | All adult occupiers; repeat if permission is time-limited |
| Furniture fire safety | When furnishing | Upholstered items must meet fire safety rules |
| Licensing | As your council requires | HMOs and selective licensing areas |
EPC C by 2030
The government confirmed in January 2026 that privately rented homes in England and Wales must reach EPC C by 1 October 2030, for new and existing tenancies. The current minimum of E applies until then. Plan upgrades early: insulation, heating and windows are the usual routes. Many upgrade costs are capital improvements rather than allowable expenses. See allowable expenses.
Renters' Rights Act
Since 1 May 2026 there are no Section 21 evictions, tenancies are periodic and rent rises are limited to once a year. A landlord database and ombudsman are coming in later phases. See our overview.
Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland
Each nation has its own rules. This checklist covers England. See our Scotland checklist (landlord registration, Repairing Standard) and Wales checklist (Rent Smart Wales, occupation contracts).
Frequently asked questions
What is the fine for not having a gas safety certificate?
It's a criminal offence. Councils and the HSE can prosecute, and it can also affect your ability to regain possession.
Do I need a CO alarm next to a gas cooker?
Gas cookers are excluded from the requirement, but fitting one is good practice.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Electrical safety standards in the private rented sector
- GOV.UK: Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, booklet for landlords
- GOV.UK: Minimum energy efficiency standard, landlord guidance
- GOV.UK: Tenancy deposit protection
- GOV.UK: Check your tenant's right to rent
- GOV.UK: Implementing the Renters' Rights Act 2025, roadmap
Sources last checked 10 November 2026. See all our sources and how we keep pages up to date.