Lettings legislation is constantly evolving, and if you’re a landlord, staying on top of your legal responsibilities can feel like a full-time job in itself. Whether you’re letting your first property or managing a growing portfolio, it’s essential to understand what’s required of you, not just to avoid fines, but to protect your tenants and your investment.
Here’s a straightforward guide to what you need to know in 2025.
1. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
All rental properties must have an EPC rated E or above to be legally let in the UK. The government has delayed proposals to increase the minimum to a C for now, but it’s still worth planning ahead – especially if you own an older Victorian or Edwardian home common in London.
Tip: Improving your EPC rating can help make your property more attractive to tenants looking to save on energy bills
2. Gas and Electrical Safety
If your property has gas, you’ll need a valid Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) renewed annually by a registered Gas Safe engineer.
You’ll also need an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), which must be renewed every five years. Any Category 1 or 2 issues identified must be resolved within 28 days (or sooner, if required).
3. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
You’re legally required to have:
- A smoke alarm on each floor used as living space
- A carbon monoxide alarm in every room with a solid fuel appliance
From October 2022, this also includes gas boilers, so if you haven’t updated your alarms since then, it’s time for a check.
4. Tenancy Deposit Protection
If you take a deposit, it must be:
- Protected within 30 days in a government-approved scheme
- Accompanied by the prescribed information given to the tenant
Failure to do so can result in fines or being unable to regain possession under Section 21.
5. Right to Rent Checks
Landlords are legally required to check that all adult tenants have the right to rent in the UK. This involves verifying original documents or using the Home Office online service.
We know this part can feel tricky, especially with shifting immigration rules – our lettings team handles this on our owners behalf to make sure everything is compliant.
6. Local Licensing Schemes
Norfolk and many surrounding counties have additional licensing schemes, depending on property type and tenant arrangements. Failing to licence a property when required can result in hefty penalties and rent repayment orders.
We’ll always let you know if a licence is needed and can help with the application process as part of our fully managed service.
7. Big Changes Are Coming: The Renters Right’s Bill
One major shift on the horizon is the Renters Right’s Bill, set to overhaul how tenancies work in England. It hasn’t come into effect yet, but when it does, it will mean big changes for landlords, including:
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The end of fixed-term tenancies (moving to periodic tenancies instead)
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Abolition of Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions
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Stronger grounds for regaining possession under Section 8
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A new national ombudsman for landlords
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New standards for property conditions
It will require changes to how you manage tenancies, serve notices, and structure your contracts
Keeping up with reforms like this is essential to staying compliant and avoiding disputes.
If that all feels like a lot to track, you’re not alone. Many landlords are choosing to entrust a professional agent to stay ahead of legislation, so you don’t have to worry about missing something important.
At Location Location, we stay informed and adjust processes as soon as the law changes. So whether the Renters Bill lands this year or next, our owners will be ready.
Final Thoughts
Being a landlord in 2025 means more than just finding a tenant and collecting rent. It means meeting legal standards, protecting your property, and creating a safe home.
Got questions about your legal responsibilities or want to find out if your property is fully compliant? Our team is always here to offer honest advice. Click here to get in touch.
Article by Andrew Overman | Partner | Location Location East
