This page provides an overview of the legislation that applies to private rented properties.
If the government introduce new legislation we will update this area.
Housing Act 2004
The Housing Act 2004 replaced The Housing Act 1985. It introduced a new way of assessing the condition of properties.
Read more about the Housing Act 2004
The Licencing and Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (Additional Provisions) (England) Regulation 2007
These regulations place a duty on any individual managing the HMO, either a landlord or agent.
The Housing and Planning Act 2016
This Act came in to force on 13 May 2016. It aims to stop unsatisfactory practices and criminal activity
Read more about the The Housing and Planning Act 2016
Deregulation Act 2015
One of the aims is to prevent retaliatory evictions. This is where a landlord serves a possession notice on a tenant because they have made a complaint.
Read more about the Deregulation Act 2015
The Energy Efficiency Regulations 2015
All private rented properties in England must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E. Some exemptions are available.
Read more about the The Energy Efficiency Regulations 2015
The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015
All private rented properties must have a smoke alarm fitted on every floor. There must be a carbon monoxide alarm in any room containing a solid fuel burning appliance.
Read more about the The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 replaced the Fire Precautions Act 1971. It places the responsibility on individuals to carry out risk assessments.
Read more about the The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
Immigration Act 2016
The introduction of the Immigration Act 2016 and amends the Immigration Act 2014. New provisions have introduced the criminal offence of “leasing premises” to someone who does not have a “right to rent”.
Read more about the Immigration Act 2016
Property Agent Redress Schemes
There are two recognised providers which all Letting Agents must sign up to.