Compliance & Licensing for Landlords:

Navigating the complexities of landlord compliance and licensing in London can be daunting, but it’s essential for protecting your property’s value and ensuring tenant satisfaction.

At Rocket Property Management, we provide comprehensive compliance and licensing support to keep your investments profitable, hassle-free, and fully adherent to all regulations.

‍

Why Compliance Matters

Compliance isn’t just about avoiding fines - it’s about safeguarding your property’s financial value, making sure your tenants are safe, and maintaining your reputation as a responsible landlord.

Missing documents, such as gas or electrical safety certificates, can significantly reduce your property’s value and even hinder its sale. At worst, non-compliance can lead to legal consequences or safety risks for tenants.

‍

Your Landlord Compliance Checklist

We’ve developed a comprehensive checklist to make sure your properties meet all legal requirements:

‍

Property Ownership

Verify ownership with the Land Registry and set up property alerts to guard against fraud.
Establish a Deed of Trust if ownership details involve multiple parties to avoid tax complications.

‍

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

Ensure a minimum EPC rating of E to rent properties, rising to C by 2030.
Upgrade energy efficiency with measures like LED lighting and loft insulation.

‍

Gas Safety Check

Perform annual checks and issue certificates to tenants to avoid invalidating eviction notices.

‍

Electrical Safety Certificate (EICR)

Conduct inspections every five years and provide certificates to tenants.

‍

Tenant Documentation

Supply tenants with a current "How to Rent Guide" and conduct thorough reference checks.
‍

Right to Rent Checks

Verify tenant residency to avoid penalties, including fines up to £10,000 or imprisonment.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Test all alarms on the first day of tenancy to check the property is safe.
‍

Deposit Protection

Register deposits within 30 days and issue prescribed information to tenants.
‍

Inventory Reports

Provide a detailed inventory to protect against disputes during tenancy.

Licensing  Compliance

Make sure you meet local council licensing requirements, such as HMO, additional or selective licenses.

Furniture Compliance

Verify that all furnishings meet fire safety standards.

Overseas Landlords

Register with the Non-Resident Landlord Scheme to avoid automatic tax deductions.

‍

Landlord Licensing: Are You Covered?

Many London boroughs have unique licensing requirements, and failing to comply can result in severe penalties, including fines, rent repayment orders, or even criminal charges.

‍

Types of Licenses

‍
Selective Licenses: Required by some councils for all rental properties, regardless of size.

‍HMO Licenses: Necessary for properties with five or more unrelated tenants, with varying specifications by council.

‍Additional Licenses: Extend HMO requirements to smaller properties in some areas.
‍

‍Council Variations

‍
‍London councils have differing requirements for room sizes, living spaces, and more. For example:

‍
Wandsworth: HMO license needed for 5+ unrelated tenants; minimum room size 6.5 sqm.
‍Lambeth: HMO license required for 3+ unrelated tenants; minimum room size 7 sqm.

At Rocket, we’ll handle these complexities for you. From identifying required licenses to applying on your behalf, we make sureyour properties remain compliant and profitable.

‍

Protect Your Investment with Rocket

Your property is your investment - don’t let compliance issues put it at risk. Partner with Rocket Property Management to keep your portfolio profitable and your tenants happy.

Rocket Property Management - Compliance Made Simple. Profits Made Possible.

‍