SAFETY STANDARDS

​We work with landlords to try and improve standards of rented accommodation. There are a number of things you will need to keep in mind if you are renting out properties.

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Gas Safety

As a Landlord you have duties under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 to arrange maintenance by a Gas Safe Registered engineer for all pipe work, appliances and flues, which you own and have provided for your tenants use. You must also arrange for an annual gas safety check to be carried out every 12 months by a Gas Safe Registered engineer. You must keep a record of the safety check for 2 years and issue a copy to each existing tenant within 28 days of the check being completed and issue a copy to any new tenants before they move in.

Electrical Safety

As a landlord you must ensure that electrical equipment and system is safe for your tenant. Although there is no statutory requirement for you to have annual safety checks (like there is with gas) it is recommended to have your electrical installations checked every 5 years, and your equipment PAT tested annually.  Electrical Hazards are also covered under the Housing Health and Safety Ratings System. 
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Fire Safety

There are no specific fire regulations regarding your property, unless it is a House of Multiple Occupation (HMO).
There are regulations which apply to furniture, furnishings and fire alarms.
​As a minimum landlords should remove any potencial dangerous appliances and fit smoke alarms. If possible fitting a fire extinguisher and kitchen fire blanket would be a good idea.
For more information you can contact the local fire department or a landlords association.
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Housing Health & Safety Rating System

The Housing Health & Safety System (HHSRS) is the new way in which councils assess housing standards. The idea is that a dwelling should provide a safe and healthy environment for its occupants and visitor.
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The inspection process is a risk based assessment and considers the effect of any 'hazards' in a property. Hazards are rated accordingly to how serious they are and the effect they are having, or could have.