Landlord Obligations
Landlords have always had a duty under common law to ensure the safety of rented property and the contents, so as to ensure that no injury is caused to either tenants or the public. However, there are also regulations in place, requiring certification and ignorance of the law is no protection if the unthinkable happens.
Why not let Curtis Haines take the strain for you? Our panel of contractors are all fully qualified to provide the necessary certification.
The Gas Safety (installation and use) Regulations 1994
Landlords must provide an annual certificate showing that all gas appliances, pipework and equipment in the property have been certified safe by a CORGI registered contractor.
See www.hse.gov.uk/gas/domestic
Energy Performance Certificate
Landlords must be able to provide a certificate to enable tenants to compare the energy efficiency of the property they plan to rent. Once obtained, the certificate is valid for 10 years. See www.direct.gov/epc
Electrical Safety Certificate
Most professional letting agents now require a certificate of electrical safety prior to letting a property, between each new tenancy, in order to protect landlords by proving correct duty of care to their tenants. This should be provided by an approved NICEIC contractor
See www.niceic.org.uk
Fire Safety
All upholstery, mattresses, cushions and soft furnishings must be fire resistant and have a label clearly stating this. Generally, any items purchased after May 1990 should comply.
We recommend that a smoke alarm be fitted to each floor of the property.
Other Landlord Obligations
Before letting your property, you should notify your mortgage lender and if your property is leasehold, your Freeholder that you intend to do so, and get their written approval. You should also ensure that your household insurance covers you once your property is let.
If you have any concerns about any of the foregoing, do speak to one of our fully qualified staff who will be pleased to help you.