Landlord Compliance Checklist: What You Need to Know (2026 Update)

Managing a rental property comes with responsibilities – some legal, some moral – and staying on top of them is essential. From safety regulations to tenancy deposits, compliance is not just about avoiding fines; it’s about keeping your tenants safe and your property running smoothly. At Ready To Let, we know it can feel overwhelming, which is why we’ve put together this simple 2026 compliance checklist for landlords.

Right to Rent Checks

Since February 2016, all private landlords in England must check that tenants have the legal right to rent in the UK. While this requirement has caused some debate, failing to comply can lead to significant penalties.

The process for Right to Rent checks has been updated in recent years, including adjustments following the pandemic. Make sure you’re following the current guidelines to stay compliant.

Landlord Licensing

Not every landlord needs a licence, but an increasing number do. Licensing requirements depend on your local authority and are more common in larger towns and cities, especially where there are many tenants.

Licence fees vary, so always check with your council. In London, for example, tenants can use the Mayor’s property licence checker to confirm whether their landlord is licensed.

Health and Safety

Ensuring your property is safe is one of the most important landlord duties. Key areas include:

• Gas and electrical safety: Appliances must be safely installed, maintained, and tested regularly.

• Fire safety: Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are required, and fire regulations must be followed for flats and converted properties.

• Hazard checks: Councils use the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) to identify risks, including uneven stairs, loose wiring, or unsafe plug sockets.

If an inspection identifies serious hazards, your local authority can issue improvement notices or even take action themselves, billing you for costs. Compliance isn’t optional – it’s essential for tenant safety.

Deposit Protection

Since 2007, all landlord-held deposits must be placed in a government-approved scheme within 30 days of receipt. Approved schemes include:

• Deposit Protection Service

• MyDeposits

• Tenancy Deposit Scheme

These schemes can be either custodial (holding the deposit) or insured (landlord holds the deposit with insurance). Tenants must receive their deposit back within 10 days of agreement at the end of a tenancy. In rare disputes, mediation or legal action may be required.

Financial and Insurance Considerations

Landlords must pay income tax on rental income minus allowable expenses, and Class 2 National Insurance if operating as a business.

It’s wise to maintain a contingency fund for urgent repairs or void periods. Insurance is also essential:

• Landlord/Buy-to-Let Insurance: Protects the building and contents.

• Rent Guarantee Insurance: Covers rent if tenants stop paying, up to 12 months in some policies.

• Legal costs cover: Helps with eviction processes and other disputes.

Energy Efficiency

Landlords must provide tenants with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before they move in. All properties must currently meet a minimum rating of E, with standards expected to rise in line with the UK’s net-zero targets.

Other Key Obligations

Other important landlord duties include:

• Providing a How to Rent guide to tenants

• Ensuring furniture and furnishings meet fire safety standards

• Keeping up with new legislation, such as tenant fees or HMO rules

For busy landlords, partnering with a professional letting agent or property management company like Ready To Let can remove the stress of compliance and help protect your investment.

At Ready To Let, we’ve developed ready-to-let packs and simple processes to make sure your property is fully compliant, so you can focus on renting with peace of mind.

Want to simplify property compliance? Contact us today and find out how we can help.