Landlord compliance check: are you legal? (England, 2026)
Missing paperwork can cost you fines and block you from getting your property back. Since the Renters' Rights Act, there are new documents to give tenants too.
Answer six quick yes/no questions and we'll show you exactly what's missing and how to put it right.
The core legal requirements for a private let (England)
-
1
Gas Safety Certificate
By a Gas Safe engineer; copy to tenants.
-
2
Electrical report (EICR)
Copy to tenants.
-
3
EPC rated E or above
Needed to let the property.
-
4
Smoke and CO alarms
CO alarm where there's a fixed combustion appliance (except gas cookers).
-
5
Deposit protected
With prescribed information given to the tenant.
-
6
Written terms / information sheet
New tenancies: written statement of terms. Pre-May 2026 tenancies: the government information sheet.
Common questions
Do I still need to give tenants the How to Rent guide?
No. Since 1 May 2026 the How to Rent booklet no longer has to be given. New tenancies need a written statement of terms; existing written tenancies needed the government's Renters' Rights Act Information Sheet by 31 May 2026.
What happens if I didn't protect the deposit?
A tenant can claim a penalty of one to three times the deposit, and you can't use most possession grounds until it's put right. Get advice on fixing it.
What EPC rating do I need to let a property?
E or above. Check GOV.UK for any future minimums that have been announced.
Sources: GOV.UK: renting out a property · GOV.UK: tenancy deposit protection. Checked 31 Oct 2026. General information, not legal advice.