New landlord compliance checklist: what you need to know

Becoming a landlord for the first time can feel exciting, but it also comes with a list of legal responsibilities that keep your property safe and your tenancy smooth. This checklist breaks down the key compliance items you need to address for a typical let in England, with notes on where the rules differ in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Follow each step, keep the records handy, and you’ll be ready to welcome tenants with confidence.

Gas safety

Landlords must have all gas appliances, fittings and flues checked every 12 months by a Gas Safe registered engineer. After the check you receive a Gas Safety Certificate (CP12). You must keep a copy of the record and give a copy to your tenants within 28 days of the check, or before a new tenant moves in. If you’re letting in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland the same annual check applies, but you should verify any local variations on the relevant government website. You can book a verified Gas Safe engineer through RentalComply: Gas Safety Certificates (CP12).

Electrical safety

Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, fixed electrical installations must be inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years. The resulting Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) must be given to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection and to prospective tenants before they move in. In Scotland the standard is similar but the frequency can differ; Wales and Northern Ireland have their own regulations, so always check the latest guidance. RentalComply helps you find qualified electricians for an EICR: EICR - Electrical Installation Condition Reports.

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

Most rented homes need a valid EPC, which is valid for ten years. In England and Wales the property must achieve at least an E rating unless you have registered a valid exemption. You must provide the EPC to any prospective tenant before they view the property. In Scotland the EPC requirements are separate, and in Northern Ireland the rules are similar but administered differently. You can arrange an EPC through RentalComply: EPC - Energy Performance Certificates.

Portable appliance testing (PAT)

PAT testing is not a specific legal requirement for most private landlords, but you are still responsible for keeping any electrical appliances you supply safe. Regular PAT testing is considered good practice, especially for furnished lets, HMOs or properties with a high turnover of tenants. It helps you demonstrate that you have taken reasonable steps to ensure appliance safety. If you decide PAT testing is right for your property, you can book a tester via RentalComply: PAT Testing - portable appliance testing.

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

You must install at least one smoke alarm on every storey of the rental property and a carbon monoxide alarm in any room where there is a solid fuel burning appliance (such as a coal fire or wood‑burning stove). Alarms should be tested at the start of each tenancy and tenants should be advised to test them regularly. Replace alarms according to the manufacturer’s guidance or if they fail a test. While the basic requirement is UK‑wide, check any additional guidance that applies in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.

Tenancy deposit protection

If you take a deposit, you must place it in a government‑approved tenancy deposit scheme within 30 days of receiving it. You must also give the tenant the prescribed information detailing how their deposit is protected. This rule applies across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, although the specific schemes may differ. Keep the deposit protection certificate and the prescribed information in your records.

Right to Rent

Before a tenancy begins you must check that all adults who will occupy the property have the right to rent in the UK. This involves examining original documents (such as a passport or biometric residence permit) and retaining copies. You should follow up with a follow‑up check if the tenant’s permission is time‑limited. Failure to comply can result in civil penalties. The scheme applies England‑wide; Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have separate immigration checks, so verify the relevant rules if you operate outside England.

Record keeping and documentation

Good record keeping is the backbone of compliance. Keep the following documents for at least two years (or longer where specified):

• Gas safety certificates (CP12)
• Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR)
• EPCs
• PAT test reports (if undertaken)
• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarm test logs
• Deposit protection certificates and prescribed information
• Right to Rent document copies
• Any correspondence with tenants about safety issues

Having these records organised makes it easier to show compliance if requested by a local authority or if a dispute arises.

How RentalComply helps

RentalComply simplifies the process of finding and booking verified engineers. Enter your postcode, compare local professionals by price and reviews, choose a time slot and pay online. The engineer carries out the work, uploads the certificate to your dashboard and you receive a copy for your records. Whether you need a gas safety check, an EICR, an EPC or PAT testing, you can book trusted tradespeople in a few clicks.

Ready to tick off your compliance checklist? Find a verified engineer on RentalComply and book today.