As we navigate 2025, landlords in Leamington Spa face a dynamic landscape of evolving regulations and heightened tenant expectations. Staying compliant is not just about avoiding penalties; it’s about fostering trust, ensuring tenant safety, and protecting your investment. This comprehensive checklist will guide you through the essential steps to remain compliant and confident in your role as a landlord.
1. Understand the Renters’ Rights Bill
The Renters’ Rights Bill, introduced in 2024, brings significant changes:
- Periodic Tenancies: All tenancies are now periodic, replacing fixed-term agreements.
- Section 21 Abolition: ‘No-fault’ evictions under Section 21 are abolished; evictions must now be under Section 8 with valid grounds.
- Rent Increases: Rent can only be increased once per year with a minimum of two months’ notice.
- Pet Requests: Tenants have the right to request pets; landlords must consider these requests reasonably.
Staying informed about these changes is crucial. For a detailed overview, refer to our guide on what the Renters’ Rights Bill means for landlords in Leamington Spa.
2. Ensure Proper Licensing
Depending on your property type and location, specific licenses may be required:
- HMO Licensing: If your property is a House in Multiple Occupation, ensure you have the appropriate HMO license.
- Selective Licensing: Some areas in Leamington Spa may require selective licensing.
Check with the Warwick District Council for local licensing requirements.
3. Maintain Safety Standards
Safety is paramount. Ensure the following:
- Gas Safety Certificate: Conduct annual checks by a Gas Safe registered engineer and provide certificates to tenants.
- Electrical Safety: Obtain an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every five years.
- Smoke and CO Alarms: Install smoke alarms on each floor and carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with solid fuel appliances.
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Ensure your property has a valid EPC with a rating of E or above.
For more details, visit the Health and Safety Executive’s guide for landlords.
4. Protect Tenant Deposits
Deposits must be protected in a government-approved scheme within 30 days of receipt. Provide tenants with the prescribed information about the scheme. Failure to do so can lead to penalties and affect your ability to regain possession of the property.
5. Conduct Right to Rent Checks
Before the tenancy begins, verify that tenants have the legal right to rent in the UK. Check original documents and retain copies for your records. This is a legal requirement under the Immigration Act 2014.
6. Provide the ‘How to Rent’ Guide
At the start of each tenancy, supply tenants with the latest version of the government’s ‘How to Rent’ guide. This ensures tenants are informed about their rights and responsibilities.
7. Join the PRS Landlord Database and Ombudsman Scheme
Under the new regulations, landlords must:
- Register: List themselves and their properties on the Private Rented Sector (PRS) database.
- Ombudsman Scheme: Join a government-approved redress scheme to handle tenant complaints.
8. Adhere to the Decent Homes Standard
Ensure your property meets the Decent Homes Standard, which includes:
- Safe and Healthy: Free from serious hazards.
- In Good Repair: Well-maintained structure and facilities.
- Modern Facilities: Reasonable modern kitchen and bathroom.
- Efficient Heating: Effective insulation and heating systems.
9. Stay Informed and Seek Professional Advice
Regulations can change. Regularly consult reliable sources and consider joining landlord associations for updates and support. Engaging with our professional property management services can also ensure compliance and peace of mind.
Need Assistance?
At Martin & Co Leamington Spa, we’re dedicated to helping landlords navigate these regulations confidently. Whether you need advice, property management services, or a compliance check, our team is here to support you.
- Contact Us: Get in touch
- Property Valuation: Book a free valuation
Stay compliant, protect your investment, and ensure your tenants’ safety with Martin & Co Leamington Spa.
