Letting out a property in the UK, whether on a long-term basis or as a furnished holiday let, comes with a wide range of responsibilities. These obligations cover legal, safety, financial and practical aspects, and apply whether you are a full-time landlord or letting out a second home part-time.
Understanding and meeting your obligations is essential – not just to protect your property and income, but to remain compliant with UK legislation.
Insurance obligations
You are not legally required to have landlord insurance when letting out your property. However, given your investment in it and the risk of loss or damage to the building or your contents within it, you might consider landlord insurance to be more or less essential.
If you are buying the property with the help of a mortgage, your lender is almost certain to insist upon a minimum level of cover for the building itself.
In fact, a landlord’s insurance of the building – against such major risks as fire or flood damage – is something which the government advises tenants in general to check is already in place when taking on any tenancy.
Landlord or holiday let insurance typically provides protection for the building itself, its contents (if required), your liability if a tenant or guest is injured, and potential loss of rental income if the property becomes uninhabitable due to an insured event.
Health and safety responsibilities
Gas appliances must be inspected annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. You are required by law to provide tenants with a valid gas safety certificate before they move in and at each annual renewal.
Electrical safety regulations also apply. In England, landlords must arrange a full electrical safety inspection every five years. Smoke alarms are mandatory on every storey of the property, and carbon monoxide alarms are required in rooms with solid fuel-burning appliances.
You must also ensure the property is free from serious hazards, is well-maintained, and provides adequate heating, lighting and ventilation. Local authorities have powers to take enforcement action if these standards are not met.
Further reading: Landlords guide to Health and Safety and Landlord Legislation Guide
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
Landlords are legally required to provide a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to tenants before the tenancy begins. The minimum rating for most tenancies is currently an E, though this may change in future. Failure to provide an EPC can invalidate a Section 21 eviction notice.
Deposit protection and legal documents
If you take a deposit from your tenant, it must be placed in a government-approved Tenancy Deposit Protection scheme within 30 days. You must also provide the tenant with details of the scheme, known as the ‘prescribed information’.
In addition, tenants (in England) must be given a copy of the government’s ‘How to Rent’ guide at the start of the tenancy. Other documentation may be required depending on the type of let.
If these steps are not followed correctly, your ability to regain possession of the property through a Section 21 notice may be restricted.
Licensing and planning permissions
Some types of properties require a licence to let. This includes Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and properties in designated selective licensing areas. Requirements vary by local authority.
If you are letting a holiday home, especially through platforms like Airbnb, you may also need planning permission or to register the property as a short-term let, depending on local regulations.
Maintenance and repair duties
Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords are responsible for maintaining the structure and exterior of the property, including roofs, walls, windows and doors. You must also ensure that installations for heating, hot water, electricity and sanitation are kept in good working order.
If the property is not maintained to legal standards, the tenant may be entitled to compensation, and local authorities can impose enforcement actions or rent repayment orders.
Right to rent and other checks
You are required to check that all adult tenants have the right to rent in the UK. This involves reviewing documents such as passports or immigration status paperwork before the tenancy begins.
If you use a letting agent, ensure they are a member of a recognised professional body and that they comply with client money protection and transparency rules.
Why these obligations matter
Failing to meet your legal responsibilities can result in financial penalties, legal disputes, and even criminal prosecution in serious cases. Non-compliance may also invalidate your insurance or remove your right to evict tenants.
At the same time, meeting your obligations helps to build trust with tenants, ensures your property remains in good condition, and protects your long-term investment.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on current UK legislation and regulations as understood at the time of writing. However, landlord obligations are subject to change. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, Cover4LetProperty accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions, or for any loss arising from reliance on the information provided. For specific advice, please consult a qualified professional or refer to official government sources.
