An important part in renting out a residential property is the rules and regulations that landlords must abide by. This article covers some of the most important regulations, and includes gas, electrical and fire safety.

Gas Regulations

If not dealt with in the right way gas can be very dangerous. Carbon monoxide can be particularly dangerous, and carbon monoxide poisoning is the most common cause of gas related illness as it is odourless and can go undetected.

All rented properties must at all times have a valid Gas Safety Record, and both the landlord and the tenant must have a copy. This is the case if the home has any gas supply at all, even if capped off and not used. All gas appliances and pipework must be checked by a CORGI registered engineer. This gas check must be carried out at least once a year with the Gas Safety Record being updated with a copy of the updated version being given to the tenant. The above are legal regulations and failure to comply could result in a fine or even imprisonment. If these regulations have not been met and there is a related fatality then the landlord could face a charge of manslaughter.

Electrical Safety Regulations

Electrical safety regulations are applicable to any electrical items that are supplied by the landlord but are not relevant to those supplied by the tenants themselves, such as their own televisions and computers.

Examples of applicable items are ovens, microwaves, televisions and irons. Electrical appliances themselves are included as are any leads and plugs. Leads cannot be worn and the correct plugs must be fitted. All plugs, sockets and adapters must have insulated pins and plugs and be pre-wired. Appliances should be in good (and safe) working order.

There are fewer specific rules with electrical items as with gas but the landlord has a responsibility to make sure all electrical appliances are fit for purpose and safe to use. As with gas, they could face the force of the law if they fail to meet these responsibilities. One way in which landlords can ensure electrical safety is by regularly carrying out PAT Testing.

Fire Regulations

The most important part of the fire regulations is that working smoke alarms must be fitted. How many should be fitted and where they should be placed is dependent on the property and its size. If fire protection equipment is supplied, such as fire distinguishers and fire blankets, they must be fit for use.

Furniture Regulations

Rented properties can come furnished, partly furnished or unfurnished. The below applies to any furnishings that are supplied by the landlord. As with electrical safety regulations it does not apply to furnishings belonging to the tenant. Certain types of furniture must meet fire safety standards. These include beds, mattresses, sofas and garden furniture. Bed-clothes, curtains and carpet are not included.

Buildings

Any building, including the home itself, garages, sheds and greenhouses, must comply with UK safety standards.

The above is a basic look at the safety rules and regulations that landlords must make sure are met before letting out a property. Potential landlords should look at the regulations in more detail before letting their property out.

Andrew Marshall ©