Information for tenants

Landlords are required to give tenants certain information and check property conditions, smoke alarms etc at the start of the tenancy. It is recommended the property checks and pre tenancy information are included in an inventory and record kept.

Tenants are to be provided with a copy of a current satisfactory Gas Certificate, Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) , valid EPC certificate and a ‘How to’ leaflet

• How to rent – a guide for current and prospective tenants
• How to let – a guide for current and prospective private residential landlords
• How to lease – a guide for current and prospective leaseholders

More details on the compliance paperwork can be found on our Property Standards, Legislation and Guidance pages.

Landlords are required to check the tenants ID and that they have a right to rent the property. Where applicable, a copy of the HMO licence must be given to the tenants/be on display.

Deposits

If the landlord or letting agent ask for a deposit, the money must be protected in a Government approved scheme. Deposits can not be more than five weeks rent (if the rent is under £50K a year). Tenants are required to be given the information of the scheme used within 30 days. If a deposit is not protected, tenants may be entitled to compensation. Landlords can only ‘make a claim’ on the deposit if certain procedures are followed. The landlord and tenant can apply to the Government approved scheme to make a decision on deposit repayments.