Landlord compliance checklist for London
By the Dome team · Reviewed
The main legal checks every London landlord letting a home in England needs to keep on top of, and how often each one comes round. This is a general guide, not legal advice.
At a glance
| Requirement | When |
|---|---|
| Gas safety check | Every 12 months |
| Electrical safety (EICR) | At least every 5 years |
| Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) | Valid for 10 years, rating E or above |
| Deposit protection | Within 30 days of receiving the deposit |
| Right to Rent checks | Before the tenancy starts |
| Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms | Working at the start of every tenancy |
| Property licence | Depends on your borough |
Gas safety
If the property has gas appliances, a Gas Safe registered engineer must check them every year. Give your tenant a copy of the gas safety record before they move in, and within 28 days of each new check.
Electrical safety (EICR)
A qualified electrician must inspect and test the electrics at least every five years. Give a copy of the report to your tenant, and fix anything flagged as needing urgent work within 28 days or sooner if the report says so.
Energy Performance Certificate
You need a valid EPC before marketing the property, and you must give your tenant a copy. Most privately rented homes must have a rating of E or better to be let.
Deposit protection
If you take a deposit, protect it in a government-approved scheme within 30 days and give your tenant the prescribed information. Missing this can lead to fines and limit your ability to regain possession. Our deposit protection guide explains the schemes and deadlines.
Right to Rent
Check that every adult tenant has the right to rent in the UK before the tenancy starts, and keep a record of the check. Our Right to Rent guide explains how.
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- A smoke alarm on every storey used as living accommodation.
- A carbon monoxide alarm in any room with a fixed combustion appliance, such as a gas boiler (gas cookers excluded).
- Check they work on the day the tenancy starts, and repair or replace them once told they are faulty.
Documents to give your tenant
- The latest government "How to Rent" guide.
- The gas safety record, EICR and EPC.
- Deposit protection certificate and prescribed information.
Borough licensing
Many London boroughs run additional or selective licensing schemes, and larger shared homes (HMOs) need a mandatory licence. Rules vary by borough and street, so check your council's website before letting.
Keep an eye on new rules
Renting rules in England are changing under the Renters' Rights Act. Read our Renters' Rights Act guide for what it means for you, and check GOV.UK for the latest requirements that apply to your tenancy.
Weighing up whether to hand this to an agent? Read London letting agent fees explained. Dome tracks every certificate and deadline for you as part of full management.
Frequently asked questions
What certificates does a London landlord need?
Typically a gas safety record (if there is gas), an electrical installation condition report (EICR) and an energy performance certificate (EPC), plus deposit protection and Right to Rent checks.
How often is each safety check due?
Gas safety checks are due every 12 months, EICRs at least every five years, and EPCs are valid for ten years.
Do I need a licence to let my London property?
It depends on the borough. Many London boroughs run additional or selective licensing schemes, so check with your local council.
