Laws and Regulations

Keeping up with legislation and rule changes can be a nightmare for landlords. Here are just some of the more significant regulations that affect rented property.

The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020

This new regulation could have a major impact on landlords who are not properly prepared. It has been expected for many years and, now here, we now know that the compliance standards are high and the time limits are tight. This new regulation is set to come into effect on the 1st of July 2020. Approval is still required from the House of Commons and the House of Lords, but this is likely to happen.
All new tenancies which begin on or after the 1st of July 2020 fall under the Act. Properties will require an inspection at least every five years carried out by a qualified electrician. All work must also be undertaken by qualified electricians.
Existing tenancies fall under the Act from the 1st of April 2021.

Due to the increase in the number of inspections we now have to carry out, we have negotiated a special deal for our landlord clients with our recommended qualified electrician. The cost is VAT free and, if work is required, he can call you directly to discuss.

Gas Safety Regulations Act (1998)

UK landlords with gas appliances and fittings – including central heating, boilers and flues – must conduct an annual safety check conducted by a Gas Safe engineer. You can find more information on the government’s Health And Safety Executive (HSE) website.

Landlords must keep record of the safety check for two years and supply new tenants with a copy of the certificate before they move in and within 28 days of completing a new check.