Essential Annual Checks for Landlords and Letting Agents
Trade body PropertyMark is calling on the UK government to scrap licensing schemes that have been introduced by councils around the country. Instead, it says, it would be more effective to give rental properties an annual MOT, like vehicle owners must undertake, to ensure landlords are carrying out their duties in a lawful manner.
In addition to ongoing duties, it is also a good idea for landlords and letting agents to regularly check in on their properties to ensure all is working well for tenants. In fact, it makes sense to schedule annual checks for landlords and letting agents that help you understand what is happening within the property and keep on top of your obligations.
If the MOT idea becomes law, those property owners or managers who already keep regular tabs on the state of properties will be well placed to comply.
Here are some of the checks you should undertake at least annually.
Annual Checks for Landlords and Letting Agents
1. Gas Safety Check
One of the most critical checks landlords must carry out each year is the gas safety inspection. According to the law, landlords are required to ensure that all gas appliances, flues and associated pipework are maintained and checked annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. After the inspection, you’ll receive a Gas Safety Certificate (CP12), which must be provided to the tenants within 28 days of the check.
Key Points:
Ensure a qualified Gas Safe engineer conducts the check.
The certificate is valid for 12 months and must be renewed annually.
Failure to comply with gas safety regulations can result in hefty fines and, more importantly, put tenants’ lives at risk.
2. Electrical Safety Check
Electrical installations can deteriorate over time, so it’s essential to carry out an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every five years or at the start of a new tenancy. However, annual checks on visible wiring, plug sockets, and electrical appliances are advisable to ensure they are in good working order.
For properties in England, landlords must also provide an EICR to tenants and local authorities upon request. Any electrical issues or faults must be rectified immediately.
Key Points:
While a full EICR is required every five years, checking for any visible electrical faults annually is a good precaution.
Replace or repair faulty appliances immediately.
Document any maintenance work carried out to ensure compliance.
3. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
UK regulations require landlords to install a working smoke alarm on every storey of their property, as well as a carbon monoxide alarm in any room that contains a solid fuel-burning appliance, such as a wood burner or coal fire. It’s also advisable to install carbon monoxide alarms near gas appliances, even if they are not legally required.
These alarms must be checked and tested at the start of every tenancy, but landlords and letting agents should ensure they are tested at least once a year during a property inspection.
Key Points:
Test all smoke and carbon monoxide alarms annually.
Replace batteries or faulty units as needed.
Keep records of when alarms are tested and replaced.
4. Heating and Water Systems
Ensuring that heating systems, including boilers and radiators, are functioning efficiently is key to tenant comfort and preventing breakdowns during colder months. An annual boiler service is recommended even if it’s not legally required, as it can help prevent costly repairs and extend the life of the system.
You should also check water systems, including pipes and taps, for leaks or signs of wear. Early detection of leaks can prevent more extensive water damage and mould issues.
Key Points:
Schedule a boiler service every year for efficiency and safety.
Inspect pipes, taps, and radiators for leaks or damage.
Address any plumbing issues promptly to prevent bigger problems.
5. Damp and Mould Checks
Damp and mould can cause significant health problems for tenants and damage to your property. During an annual inspection, check for signs of dampness in areas such as windowsills, corners of rooms, and behind furniture. Ensure that the property is well-ventilated and that tenants know how to use extractor fans and open windows to prevent moisture build-up.
Key Points:
Inspect areas prone to damp and mould, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Address any leaks or poor ventilation issues that could cause dampness.
Provide tenants with guidance on preventing damp and mould.
6. Property Condition Inspection
An annual property inspection is an opportunity to check the overall condition of the property. This includes looking at the structure, walls, windows, doors, and roofing for signs of damage or deterioration. Pay attention to external areas like the garden, fences, and pathways, as well as any internal wear and tear.
Regular inspections allow you to address minor issues before they become costly repairs and ensure the property remains in good condition for future tenants.
Key Points:
Inspect the property for general wear and tear, both inside and out.
Ensure windows, doors, and locks are functioning properly.
Check external areas like gardens and driveways for upkeep and safety.
7. Tenancy Agreement Review
It’s also important to review the tenancy agreement annually to ensure both parties are adhering to its terms. This includes checking that rent payments are up to date and that the tenant is following any property maintenance obligations, such as keeping the garden tidy. If any terms of the tenancy need revising, an annual review is a good time to address these issues.
Key Points:
Review the tenancy agreement to ensure all obligations are met.
Discuss any rent increases or changes to the agreement with tenants in advance.
Keep records of all communications and agreements.
Help With Annual Checks for Landlords and Letting Agents
Annual checks for landlords and letting agents are key to running a well-maintained property. But it takes time and effort. As part of our property management services, we sort out property inspections, safety checks, and more. Let us take the hard work out of renting out properties. Call 0208 5757630.
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