Landlord Compliance Audit Checklist

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

• Ensure your property has a valid EPC with a rating that meets current legal requirements.
• EPCs remain valid for 10 years.
• Review expiry dates and arrange renewals where necessary.
• Consider energy efficiency improvements such as insulation, double glazing and modern heating systems.

Gas Safety Certificate (CP12)

• A Gas Safety Certificate must be obtained annually from a Gas Safe registered engineer.
• Covers gas appliances, flues and pipework.
• A copy must be provided to tenants before occupation and within 28 days of each annual inspection.
• Retain records of all inspections and remedial works.

Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)

• Must be completed by a qualified electrician at least every five years.
• Copies must be supplied to tenants.
• Any remedial works identified must be completed within the required timeframe.
• Keep reports and certificates readily accessible.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

• Install at least one smoke alarm on every storey used as living accommodation.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms in rooms containing a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers).
• Test alarms at the start of every tenancy.
• Maintain records of testing, maintenance and replacements.

Tenancy Deposit Protection (TDP)

• Protect deposits within a government-approved scheme within 30 days of receipt.
• Provide Prescribed Information to tenants within the same 30-day period.
• Retain evidence of compliance and scheme registration.

Right To Rent Checks & ID Verification

• Verify a tenant's legal right to rent before occupation.
• Conduct follow-up checks where required.
• Retain copies of identification documents securely.

Property Licensing Requirements

• Confirm whether the property requires an HMO licence.
• Check for selective or additional licensing schemes in your local authority area.
• Renew licences before expiry.

Legionella Risk Assessment

Review the following:

• Is water stored or left unused for extended periods?
• Are there little-used outlets or dead legs within the pipework?
• Is hot water reaching appropriate temperatures?
• Is cold water remaining sufficiently cold?
• Are there showers, tanks or system components that increase risk?

Fire Safety Compliance

• Ensure escape routes remain unobstructed.
• Check fire doors where required.
• Review fire safety measures for HMOs and flats.
• Verify emergency lighting and fire detection systems where applicable.
• Ensure furniture complies with Furniture and Furnishings (Fire Safety) Regulations.

Prescribed Documents Checklist

Before or at the start of a tenancy, ensure tenants have received:

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
• Gas Safety Certificate
• How to Rent Guide
• Deposit Prescribed Information
• EICR (where applicable)

Damp and Mould Management

• Conduct regular inspections for signs of damp, condensation and mould.
• Respond promptly to tenant reports.
• Investigate root causes and implement remedial actions.
• Maintain records of complaints, inspections and repairs.

Check-In Inventory

• Prepare a detailed inventory before the tenancy starts.
• Include photographs, meter readings and descriptions of condition.
• Ensure the document is signed and dated.
• Retain records securely for the duration of the tenancy.

Repairs and Maintenance

• Ensure the property remains safe, habitable and free from hazards.
• Conduct periodic inspections.
• Maintain records of repairs and tenant communications.
• Address maintenance issues promptly.

Contractor Compliance

• Verify Gas Safe registration where gas work is undertaken.
• Verify NICEIC, NAPIT or equivalent accreditation for electrical contractors.
• Confirm contractors carry adequate insurance.

GDPR and Data Protection

• Store personal data securely.
• Restrict access to tenant information.
• Retain records only for as long as necessary.
• Dispose of personal data securely when no longer required.

Insurance Review

Consider whether you have appropriate cover in place:

• Landlord Buildings Insurance
• Landlord Contents Insurance
• Property Owners' Liability Cover
• Rent & Legal Protection Cover

Renters' Rights Act Guidance

• Provide tenants with the official Renters' Rights Act Information Sheet.
• Keep evidence showing when and how it was given to them.
• Existing tenants must have received it by 31 May 2026.
• For new tenancies, provide the required information at the start of the tenancy in line with current guidance.