Property safety advice for landlords

Find out what your responsibilities are and learn how to make your propery safe and free from health hazards.

Make sure your property is safe

If you're a private landlord you must ensure the property you rent out is safe for tenants to live in.

If your property does not meet the correct safety standards your tennats may have the right to seek compensation, or legal action could be taken against you.

Gas Safety Legislation

As a landlord you are responsible for the safety of your tenants in relation to gas safety.  Find out what your legal obligations are.

Electrical Safety Standards

New regulations require landlords to have the electrical installations in their properties inspected and tested by a person who is qualified and competent, at an interval of at least every 5 years. Landlords must provide a copy of the electrical safety report to their tenants, and to their local authority if requested. Read the electrical safety standards for the private rented sector.

Fire safety advice for landlords

If you’re a private landlord or managing agent for a high rise block of flats, you may have received a letter reminding you about responsibilities for fire safety in your building. 

Read the letter from West Sussex Fire Service (PDF 161KB). 

Housing Health and Safety Rating System Guidance for landlords

The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) is a risk-based evaluation tool to help local authorities identify and protect against potential risks and hazards in private rented dwellings.

The HHSRS Guidance for Landlords and Property Related Professionals is written for landlords to help them understand the requirements under the Housing Act 2004.

Fitness for Human Habitation Act guidance for landlords

The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 came into force on 20 March 2019.  It requires landlords to ensure that they are meeting their existing responsibilities with regards to property standards and safety.  It gives power to tenants to seek redress to hold their landlord to account without having to rely on the local authority.