Every UK landlord has a duty to ensure that their property meets safety standards before renting it out. This means obtaining the right certificates, particularly the Landlord Safety Certificate, which covers essential checks to keep tenants safe. Without this certificate, landlords can face legal issues and even fines.
In this guide, we’ll walk through every detail you need to know, including
- How to Get a Landlord Safety Certificate
- Types of safety certificates,
- costs, steps, and the potential consequences of non-compliance.
What is a Landlord Safety Certificate?
The Landlord Safety Certificate is a collective term for several certifications that landlords in the UK need to ensure their property is safe. This typically includes:
- Gas Safety Certificate (CP12)
- Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Fire Safety Certificate (for certain properties)
Why is a Landlord Safety Certificate Important?
Legal Requirement: UK laws mandate landlords to ensure properties are safe for tenants. Certain certifications are legally required, including the Gas Safety Certificate and EICR.
Tenant Safety: Safety certificates provide assurance that gas, electrical systems, and other key installations are functioning properly, reducing risks of accidents or hazards.
Avoiding Penalties: Non-compliance can lead to fines, legal action, or restrictions on renting out the property.
Types of Landlord Safety Certificates in the UK
1. Gas Safety Certificate (CP12)
Required by law if the property has gas appliances.
What It Covers: Inspection of all gas appliances, fittings, and flues.
Validity: 1 year, with a requirement for annual renewal.
Cost: Typically ranges from £40-£150, depending on the location and number of appliances.
2. Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
Mandated for all rented properties as of June 2020.
What It Covers: Electrical wiring and fixed installations.
Validity: 5 years.
Cost: Generally between £100-£300, based on property size.
3. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Measures the energy efficiency of a property.
What It Covers: Assesses a property’s energy usage and recommends improvements.
Validity: 10 years.
Cost: Around £60-£120, depending on the assessor.
4. Fire Safety Certificate (required for HMOs – Houses in Multiple Occupation)
What It Covers: Fire alarms, escape routes, fire extinguishers.
Validity: Renewed based on fire safety assessments, typically annually.
How to Get Each Landlord Safety Certificate
1. Gas Safety Certificate (CP12)
Step 1: Book a registered Gas Safe engineer.
Step 2: The engineer inspects all gas installations.
Step 3: If safe, the engineer issues the certificate on the spot or within a few days.
Important Tip: Keep a copy for your records and provide tenants with a copy within 28 days.
2. Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
Step 1: Find a qualified electrician registered with an accredited body like NICEIC.
Step 2: The electrician inspects the entire electrical system and fixed installations.
Step 3: An EICR will detail any faults or required work.
Important Tip: Schedule EICR checks every five years and address any issues marked “unsatisfactory” promptly.
3. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Step 1: Hire an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA).
Step 2: The assessor evaluates the property’s energy efficiency.
Step 3: Receive your EPC and consider implementing suggested improvements.
Important Tip: Properties must have a minimum EPC rating of ‘E’ to legally rent out.
4. Fire Safety Certificate (for HMOs)
Step 1: Arrange for a fire safety risk assessment.
Step 2: Install and maintain appropriate fire safety equipment.
Step 3: The fire risk assessor will provide a certificate if compliant.
Important Tip: Check with local authorities as HMO properties have stricter requirements.
Costs of Landlord Safety Certificates in London and the UK
Gas Safety Certificate: £40 – £150
EICR: £100 – £300
EPC: £60 – £120
Fire Safety (HMOs): Varies significantly depending on the fire risk assessment needs.
For London properties, expect to be on the higher end of these cost ranges due to the demand and urban setting.
How Often to Renew Landlord Safety Certificates
Gas Safety Certificate: Annually
Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR): Every 5 years
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Every 10 years
Fire Safety Checks: Annually for HMOs
Consequences of Not Having a Landlord Safety Certificate
Legal Penalties: Landlords without the required certificates may face significant fines, restricted renting rights, or prosecution.
Insurance Voidance: Without valid safety certificates, landlords risk voiding their insurance policies.
Tenant Compensation: In cases of tenant injury due to neglected safety standards, landlords may be held liable for compensation.
FAQs on Landlord Safety Certificates
What if my property fails the Gas or EICR inspection?
Answer: You’ll need to address all recommended repairs before you can legally rent out the property. Compliance certificates can only be issued once the property meets safety standards.
Can I do the inspections myself if I’m a certified electrician or Gas Safe engineer?
Answer: No, to avoid bias and ensure impartiality, these inspections should be performed by an independent, registered professional.
How should I store my safety certificates?
Answer: Keep both digital and physical copies and share relevant certificates with tenants annually or when updated.
Conclusion
Getting and maintaining the correct landlord safety certificates is a crucial part of property management in the UK. By staying up-to-date with inspections and renewals, landlords can ensure a safe, compliant environment that protects both tenants and their investments. Make sure to prioritize these certificates and avoid legal repercussions by following all outlined steps.
For landlords in London and across the UK, staying compliant is key. Book a professional assessment today, and safeguard your property with the necessary landlord safety certificates.
