Step 3: Know your responsibilities
To be a successful landlord in England, you must understand and comply with legal obligations
Being a landlord in England is not just about providing a home it’s about fulfilling legal and ethical responsibilities. The law requires landlords to meet property standards, respect tenant rights, and stay up to date with evolving legislation. With the Renters’ Rights Bill (RRB) set to transform the private rented sector, understanding your duties has never been more critical.
Learn the basics of landlord licensing and legal requirements: Before letting a property, you need to make sure it meets the legal standards for rented homes. That means having an up-to-date Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rated E or higher, completing an annual Gas Safety Certificate, and arranging a five-yearly electrical installation condition report (EICR). While mandatory licensing applies to larger Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), many local councils now run selective or additional licensing schemes that apply to standard rental properties in designated areas. You must check with your local authority to find out whether your property needs a licence before you let it
Keeping up with legal change: The Renters’ Rights Bill will significantly reshape the private rented sector in England. Key proposals include:
The abolition of Section 21 'no fault' evictions, meaning landlords will need to rely on specific grounds to regain possession, reating a single system of periodic tenancies
Stronger rights for tenants to request to keep pets, with limited grounds for refusal
A Private Rented Sector Ombudsman to handle tenant complaints and drive accountability
Use compliant tenancy agreements and protect deposits on time: By law, you must protect the deposit in a government-approved scheme (such as mydeposits) within 30 days of receiving it and serve the tenant with prescribed information
The legal landscape is changing fast. Landlords need to stay ahead of new rules under the Renters' Rights Bill to avoid enforcement and reputational damage. It's about professional standards, not just ticking boxes.”
Compliant landlords are trusted landlords. By taking the time to understand and follow your legal obligations, you’ll not only reduce your risks you’ll also create a more stable, positive experience for your tenants. Whether you’re managing a single property or building a growing portfolio, having the right insurance in place is essential. At Total Landlord, we understand the unique needs of landlords and will keep you informed on industry changes, such as the Renters’ Rights Bill.
