What Every New UK Landlord Needs to Know!
Becoming a landlord in the UK can be a rewarding ventureโbut itโs not as simple as handing over the keys.
Whether you’re letting a single property or starting a portfolio, itโs crucial to understand your legal responsibilities, financial obligations, and day-to-day duties. Hereโs your essential high level guide to getting started the right way.
โ Legal Must-Dos: Get Compliant from Day One
1. Licensing & Registration
- In England, check if your local authority requires a landlord or HMO licence.
- In Scotland and Wales, registration is mandatory for all landlords.
2. Right to Rent Checks (England only)
Before letting, you must verify that adult tenants have the legal right to rent in the UK. Keep copies of ID documents or immigration status.
3. New: Sanctions Checks Required (From 14 May 2025)
As of 14 May, landlords must carry out a sanctions check on every new tenant (and guarantor) to ensure they are not listed on the UK sanctions register.
- Use the official government search tool.
- Keep a dated record of the check.
- Letting to a sanctioned person may lead to criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
4. Deposit Protection
Protect your tenantโs deposit in a government-approved scheme (e.g. DPS, MyDeposits, TDS) within 30 days and provide all prescribed information.
5. Provide the โHow to Rentโ Guide
In England, this document must be given to tenants at the start of the tenancy.
๐ง Property Standards: Safety First
Gas & Electrical Safety
- Annual Gas Safety Certificate by a registered engineer
- Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every 5 years
Alarms & Fire Safety
- Smoke alarms on every floor
- Carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with solid fuel appliances
- Fire-safe furnishings and escape plans (especially in HMOs)
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Your property must meet a minimum E rating. Tenants must be given a copy.
๐ท Finances & Insurance: Protect Yourself and Your Income
Declare Your Rental Income
Inform HMRC and pay income tax on profits. Most small landlords use the cash basis accounting method.
Mortgage Permissions
Have a mortgage? Youโll need to get consent to let from your lender or switch to a buy-to-let mortgage.
Get the Right Insurance
Standard home insurance wonโt cut itโget landlord insurance that covers liability, buildings, loss of rent, and legal costs.
๐ Day-to-Day Management: Be a Proactive Landlord
Maintain the Property
Youโre legally responsible for ensuring the property is in good repair and safe for tenants.
Routine Inspections
Give at least 24 hoursโ written notice before visiting the property.
Rent Reviews & Increases
Follow proper procedures when increasing rentโusually limited to once a year unless otherwise agreed.
๐งพ Ending a Tenancy: Do It by the Book
If you need to regain possession, use the correct legal notice:
- Section 21 (no fault): Requires full compliance with safety and documentation rules.
- Section 8 (grounds-based): Used if tenants breach terms (e.g. rent arrears).
Get the paperwork and timing right to avoid delays or invalid notices.
๐ก Extra Tips for Success
- Use a letting agent if you want help managing tenants and compliance.
- Always do a check-in inventory with photosโit helps avoid deposit disputes.
- Consider using property management software for reminders and digital record-keeping.
๐ Final Word: Be Informed. Be Prepared.
Whether youโre a first-time landlord or adding to your portfolio, 2025 brings new challengesโincluding sanctions compliance. Staying informed and organised is your best path to long-term success.
For more information and support, please do visit – https://www.gov.uk/renting-out-a-property https://www.nrla.org.uk/resources/landlord-starter-pack. or give us a call and we will be happy to talk through any questions you may have.