Whilst there are over one hundred pieces
of legislation with which a letting agent should be familiar, three come
particularly to mind when it comes to advising landlords about the basic
responsibility they have to the safety of their tenants, as well as helping
landlords avoid a £5,000 fine or six months in prison for non-compliance!

1. The Furniture and Furnishings
(Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988
(as amended).Most furniture purchased new after 1st March 1990
should be marked with a display label (depicting a smoking cigarette) showing
that it complies with this regulation. There should also be a permanent and
non-detachable label stating compliance. Bed bases and mattresses should have a
label stating that it meets BS7177. The aim is to improve safety by requiring
all furniture and furnishings in rented properties to meet the “match test”
criteria.

The regulations apply to all
upholstery and upholstered furniture, and loose fittings, permanent or loose
covers including: beds, mattresses, pillows, armchairs and cushions, but excludes
carpets and curtains.

2. The Gas Safety (Installation and
Use) Regulations 1998

For all rental property, the
regulations require that work to gas appliances and fittings shall be carried
out by a qualified Gas Safe Registered engineer. Gas appliances and flues in
rented accommodation must be checked for safety within 12 months of being
installed and thereafter at least every twelve months. A copy of the safety
check record must be given to any new tenant prior to occupation and thereafter
within 28 days of the annual check.

3. The Electrical Safety Standards
in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020

The regulations state that all electrics
should be inspected and tested at least every five years by a qualified and “Registered
Competent Person Electrical” electrician who can provide an Electrical
Installation Condition Report (EICR). Landlords must give their tenant a copy
of this within 28 days of the test being undertaken.

Tenants should also be given all manuals
regarding the safe operation of any appliance that relies on specific know-how.

The lettings field is becoming increasing regulatory and complex.
Please feel free to contact us for good, straight-talking advice about how to
find your way through it – AND see a good return on your investment.

© Copyright 2020 Richard Rawlings
except as excluded under licence.