UK Rental Regulations

Landlords must have all gas appliances, flues, and pipework inspected annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. A Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) must be issued and a copy given to tenants within 28 days or before they move in.

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) must be carried out at least every 5 years by a qualified electrician. Any C1 (danger present) or C2 (potentially dangerous) issues must be remedied within 28 days.

Privately rented properties must currently have a minimum EPC rating of E. Landlords cannot let F or G rated properties without a registered exemption. The government has announced plans to raise the minimum to C by 1 October 2030, with a proposed cost cap of £10,000.

At least one smoke alarm must be installed on every storey used as living accommodation. Since 1 October 2022, a CO alarm must be installed in any room with a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers). Alarms must be in working order at the start of each new tenancy.

Tenancy deposits must be protected in a government-authorised scheme within 30 days of receipt. Prescribed Information must be served to the tenant within the same period. Applies to all assured shorthold tenancies and periodic tenancies under the Renters' Rights Act.

The Act abolished Section 21 "no-fault" evictions from 1 May 2026. All tenancies converted to assured periodic tenancies. Rent increases limited to once per year via Section 13. Bans on rental bidding and blanket bans on tenants with children or on benefits. Tenants gained the right to request pets. Landlords must use revised Section 8 grounds for possession. Future phases include a PRS Database (from late 2026), a mandatory PRS Ombudsman (by 2028), and the Decent Homes Standard for PRS (2035).

Landlords must provide tenants with the current government "How to Rent" guide at the start of each new tenancy. This is a prerequisite for serving a valid possession notice.

Mandatory licensing applies to HMOs with 5 or more tenants forming 2 or more households. Local authorities may also introduce additional HMO licensing schemes or selective licensing for all privately rented properties in designated areas. Licences are typically valid for 5 years.