The Private Sector Housing team is here to support private landlords in maintaining and improving housing standards. Below is a summary of key regulations and responsibilities, along with resources for further guidance.
Civil Penalty Notices
Since 6 April 2017, local housing authorities have had the power to impose Civil Penalties of up to £30,000 on individuals and organisations, as an alternative to prosecution, for certain offences under the Act.
Banning Orders
The Housing and Planning Act 2016 enables local authorities to apply to the First-tier Tribunal (FtT) to impose a banning order on a landlord or managing agent, following conviction for a ‘banning order offence’.
Gas Safety
All privately rented properties have to obtain a gas safety certificate for appliances on a yearly basis.
For more details on gas safety regulations, visit the Gas Safe Register.
Electrical Safety Standards
Landlords are required to have the electrical systems in their properties checked at least every five years by a qualified electrician. The electrics must comply with safety standards, and tenants must be provided with proof of these checks.
- For more information on electrical safety standards, visit Guide for landlords: electrical safety standards in the private rented sector.
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations 2022 will come into force on 1 October 2022. From that date, all relevant landlords must:
- Ensure at least one smoke alarm is equipped on each storey of their homes where there is a room used as living accommodation. This has been a legal requirement in the private rented sector since 2015.
- Ensure a carbon monoxide alarm is equipped in any room used as living accommodation which contains a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers).
- Ensure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms are repaired or replaced once informed and found that they are faulty.
The requirements are enforced by local authorities who can impose a fine of up to £5,000 where a landlord fails to comply with a remedial notice.
Houses in multiple occupancy
Landlords of HMOs have specific responsibilities regarding fire safety and property management. For guidance on HMOs, visit the Houses in Multiple Occupation section.
Landlords associations
For additional support and resources, you can contact landlords' associations such as:
Responsibilities of landlords and tenants
For a comprehensive understanding of both landlord and tenant responsibilities, visit the Repairing Rights page.
Information given to tenants
The Private Sector Housing team provides support to private tenants living in properties that do not meet current housing standards. To assist tenants in addressing issues, we have produced the following downloadable resources:
- Download the Checklist of Hazards (PDF) which is based on the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
- Download the Template Letter (PDF) to help tenants submit issues to the responsible person.
By adhering to these regulations and seeking advice when needed, landlords can ensure they provide safe and compliant housing while avoiding potential penalties and legal issues.