Whether you’re taking your first step into buy-to-let or expanding your portfolio, our Landlord Insurance team have put together a checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared before listing your property.
1. Legal Registration & Licensing
- Landlord registration is required if you’re in Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland and you can apply via Rent Smart Wales, the Scottish Landlord Register, or NI Direct.
- In England, only HMOs (Houses of Multiple Occupancy) need registration. Always check with your local authority as they may have additional rules. HMO requirements often include specific fire safety measures, additional facilities, and planning permissions.
2. Tenant Screening & Right?to?Rent
- Referencing: A credit check is essential, but go further if you can. Employment checks and previous landlord references can help prevent rent arrears and disputes.
- Right?to?rent (England only): You must check your tenant’s immigration status before the tenancy begins, using approved digital ID tools or physical documentation. Fines apply for non-compliance.
3. Tenancy Documents
- Put it in writing: Use a written tenancy agreement to clearly outline rights and responsibilities (not always legally required, but highly recommended).
- Protect the deposit: Use a government-approved scheme within 30 days (e.g., The Deposit Protection Service, MyDeposits, or The Tenancy Deposit Scheme).
4. Safety & Property Compliance
- EPC rating of E+: Your property must have a rating of E or above to be legally rented.
- Electrical safety: Portable appliance testing (PAT) is recommended for any supplied equipment, and electrical installations should be inspected every five years.
- Gas Safety Certificate: A registered Gas Safe engineer must carry out checks annually and provide tenants with a copy.
- Alarms: You must install smoke alarms on every floor and carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with fuel-burning appliances. If your property is an HMO, you’ll need to install extra fire safety features like fire doors and extinguishers.
- Change the locks for new tenants to safeguard their security (recommended, though not mandated).
Keep an eye on upcoming legislation. With the Renters’ Reform Bill expected to bring further changes in 2025, it’s important to stay up to date on how new rules could impact your responsibilities as a landlord.
5. Furnishings & Inventory
- Ensure furnished items meet fire safety regulations, carrying the correct ignition resistance labels.
- Include a room-by-room breakdown of contents and condition, ideally supported by photos or video with a detailed inventory report. This can be crucial if there’s a dispute at the end of the tenancy.
6. Ongoing Property Management
- Conduct a full visual property check and meter readings when tenants move in/out to settle utility bills accurately.
- Address maintenance swiftly: structural, plumbing, heating, and pest control fall under your responsibility. Maintain compliance with the HHSRS to ensure safe living standards.
7. Insurance & Tax
- Landlord Insurance: Standard home insurance won’t cover a rental property. Look for a dedicated landlord policy that includes buildings, contents, loss of rent, liability cover, legal expenses, and emergency assistance.
- Plan for Tax: You’ll need to declare your rental income and may be liable for Income Tax or Capital Gains Tax. An accountant can advise on allowable expenses, from letting agent fees to maintenance costs.
By following this comprehensive checklist, you’re ensuring:
- Full regulatory compliance – avoid fines or legal problems by registering correctly, licensing, and performing safety checks.
- Enhanced security and financial protection – strong tenant vetting and Landlord Insurance policies protect your assets and income.
- Transparent tenancy management – clear contracts, inventories, and maintenance protocols help build trust and avoid disputes.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. For specific guidance, please consult with a legal or property professional or visit the official government website.
About Lansdown Insurance Brokers
Lansdown Insurance Brokers are specialists in Landlord Insurance, Property Owners Insurance, and HMO Landlord Insurance. We can provide flexible policies to meet your needs. Whether you’re a landlord, investor, or property manager, call the team on 01242 524498 or email enquiries@lansdowninsurance.com.
Lansdown is part of the Benefact Group, a charity-owned, international family of financial services companies that gives all available profits to charity and good causes.