Quick answer
A landlord compliance checklist helps you prepare the main safety checks, documents and move-in records before a rental property is advertised, let or handed over to tenants.
- Check the property is safe, in good repair and free from obvious hazards.
- Prepare gas safety, electrical safety and EPC information where applicable.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and record the check.
- Prepare the tenancy agreement, How to Rent guide, deposit information and inventory.
- Check HMO, selective licensing or local council requirements where relevant.
- Set reminders for any renewal dates that could be missed later.
This is an England-focused preparation checklist. It is not a replacement for official guidance, legal advice, professional inspections or local council rules.
Landlord compliance checklist by stage
| Stage | What to check | Useful LettingReady link |
|---|---|---|
| Before marketing | EPC, property condition, obvious repairs, local licensing question. | Landlord certificates guide |
| Before tenant move-in | Gas safety, EICR, alarms, tenancy agreement, inventory, How to Rent guide. | Move-in compliance checklist |
| At move-in | Alarm test, keys/access, condition photos, tenant documents and deposit information. | Pre-letting checks |
| During tenancy | Renewal dates, repairs, safety visits, tenant reports and maintenance records. | Certificate reminders |
| If a certificate has expired | Prioritise the check, arrange professional help and keep records. | Expired gas safety guide |
1. Property condition and repairs
Before letting a property, review the condition of the rooms, fixtures, fittings, heating, plumbing, windows, doors, locks, stairs and outside areas. The aim is to spot issues before they become move-in problems.
- Check for leaks, damp signs, damaged flooring and obvious trip hazards.
- Review locks, windows, handrails and external access.
- Record any repairs, quotes or professional advice.
- Use dated photos or videos to support your inventory.
2. Gas safety
Where the property has landlord-supplied gas appliances or flues, make sure the annual gas safety check is current and that the correct record is available for tenants.
If the record has already expired, read what to do if a landlord gas safety certificate has expired.
3. Electrical safety and supplied appliances
For most rented properties in England, the electrical installation should be inspected and tested at least every 5 years by a qualified person. Supplied appliances should also be safe for use.
- Check the EICR date and whether any remedial work was required.
- Keep evidence of repairs or follow-up checks.
- If you supply portable appliances, consider appropriate PAT testing or competent checks.
4. EPC and energy information
Most properties need an Energy Performance Certificate before marketing for rent. Many rented properties must meet minimum energy-efficiency requirements unless an exemption applies.
Read the EPC validity guide if you need help checking the expiry date.
5. Alarms, fire safety and HMO prompts
Before move-in, make sure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are present where required and working at the start of the tenancy. Larger or shared properties may need additional fire safety measures or HMO licensing checks.
- Check smoke alarms on each storey used as living accommodation.
- Check carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with relevant fixed combustion appliances.
- Review HMO or local licensing requirements if the property is shared or in a licensing area.
6. Tenancy documents and move-in records
Compliance is not only about certificates. Landlords should also prepare clear paperwork and records for the start of the tenancy.
- Written tenancy agreement.
- Latest How to Rent guide where applicable.
- Deposit protection and prescribed information if taking a deposit.
- Inventory or schedule of condition with photos.
- Key handover, utility notes and contact information.
FAQs: landlord compliance checklist
What should be on a landlord compliance checklist?
A practical checklist should cover property condition, gas safety, electrical safety, EPC, alarms, tenancy documents, deposit information, inventory, HMO/licensing questions and renewal reminders.
Is this the same as legal advice?
No. LettingReady gives practical preparation guidance only. Landlords should check official guidance, local council rules and professional advice where needed.
What is the first thing to check before renting out a property?
Start with the property’s condition and the main time-sensitive documents: EPC before marketing, gas safety if gas is supplied, EICR, alarms and any licensing question.
How often should landlords review compliance?
Review the property before marketing, before move-in, at move-in and during the tenancy. Renewal reminders help with time-limited checks such as gas safety, EICR and HMO licences.
Does every property need the same checks?
No. Requirements depend on property type, tenancy type, appliances supplied, local council rules and whether the property is an HMO or in a licensing area.
Sources and notes
This page is a practical preparation checklist, not legal advice. Always check current official guidance.