Essential UK rental laws every landlord should know

Discover crucial UK rental laws to protect your tenants and business. Learn about the Homes Act 2018, Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and more.

Angelina

4 minute read

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11 Aug 2023

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Laws

As a landlord in the UK, it's crucial to understand the laws governing your tenancies. Not only does compliance with these laws help protect your tenants' rights, but it also safeguards your business from potential legal issues. Here're the key UK rental laws you need to know about and actionable steps you can take to comply with them.

The Renters Reform Bill is a proposed piece of legislation that aims to ensure quality, affordability and fairness in the private rental sector in the UK. This new UK rental law is expected to provide greater protection and power to tenants, including the following measures:

• Abolition of section 21 evictions. This means landlords can no longer evict tenants without a valid reason. -Introduction of lifetime deposits. This will make it easier for tenants to move between rental properties without paying a new deposit each time.
• Changes to the possession process, which will make it quicker and easier for landlords to regain possession of their property if they have a legitimate reason to do so.
• A new ombudsperson to investigate complaints and resolve disputes between landlords and tenants.
• Tenants' right to keep pets in their rental properties unless there is a good reason not to.
• Transition to periodic tenancies for all agreements. Agreements will roll on from month to month or week to week rather than being fixed-term.

The Renters Reform Bill is expected to be introduced in early 2024, according to experts.

Landlords should keep an eye on the news and developments surrounding the Renters Reform Bill and start preparing for the proposed changes. Review your current tenancy agreements to ensure they comply with the proposed changes. Additionally, consider how the abolition of section 21 evictions and the introduction of lifetime deposits will affect your business model.

The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 sets out several requirements for landlords in the UK. Here's what you need to know about the key sections of this UK tenancy law:

• Section 8 sets out the grounds for a landlord to evict a tenant.
• Section 11 covers repairs and maintenance. As a landlord, you are responsible for keeping your rental property in good repair and working order. You must carry out repairs promptly and to a reasonable standard.
• Section 20 covers service charges. If you charge your tenants for any services or maintenance, you must provide a written statement of the costs and give them the opportunity to challenge the charges.
• Section 21 allows landlords to seek possession of their property after the fixed term of the tenancy has ended without having to provide a reason for doing so.
• Section 22 covers ending a tenancy. To end a tenancy, you must follow the correct legal process. This includes giving notice to the tenant and obtaining a possession order from the court if necessary.

The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 requires landlords to ensure their rental properties are fit for human habitation throughout the tenancy. The law includes natural light and window regulations for rented properties in the UK as set out by The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).

If tenants believe their rental property doesn't meet the habitation standards, they can take legal action against the landlord. Landlords who breach the Act may be required to perform repairs or improvements to the property and compensate the tenant.

As a landlord, you must ensure that your rental property meets the following requirements:

• Windows are in good condition and can be easily opened for ventilation.
• Any window that poses a risk to health and safety is secured or made inaccessible.
• Any room used as living accommodation has adequate natural light.
• Your properties are free from hazards, such as dampness and mould, and have adequate heating and ventilation.
• You carry out regular inspections and respond promptly to maintenance requests. You must give the tenant at least 24 hours' notice before conducting an inspection.

The Housing Act 2004 is a UK law that sets out the standards for housing conditions in rental properties. It provides a framework for local authorities to regulate the privately rented sector and improve the housing standards for tenants.

Key points of The Housing Act 2004 include:

• Mandatory licensing for large HMOs. Landlords who rent out a property to 5 or more people from 2 or more households must apply for HMO licences (House in Multiple Occupation). This licensing ensures that HMOs meet specific safety and amenity standards.
• Selective and additional HMO licensing. Local authorities set licensing requirements to improve the quality and safety of rental properties in their area.
• Empty dwelling management orders allow local authorities to take over the management of long-term empty properties to ensure they are returned to use as rental properties.

Last but not least, you must comply with several safety standards as a UK landlord:

• Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998: These regulations require landlords to have gas appliances in their rental properties checked annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Landlords must provide tenants with a copy of the gas safety certificate.
• Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020: These regulations require landlords to have the electrical installations in their rental properties inspected and tested by a qualified person at least once every 5 years. They must provide tenants with a copy of the electrical safety report.
• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015: These regulations require landlords to install smoke alarms on every floor of their rental properties where a room is used as living accommodation. Landlords must also install carbon monoxide alarms in any room where a solid fuel appliance is used.

Ensuring compliance with essential regulations and staying updated on new rental laws in the UK can significantly contribute to establishing a secure and safe atmosphere for your tenants while also helping to prevent potential legal complications.

This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult the appropriate authorities for the latest developments or a lawyer for legal advice.

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