In recent years rented accommodation has come under close scrutiny by the government and there are a number of safety regulations that you need to be aware of. As you would expect Fosse House are familiar with all safety legislation and will advise you on the requirements when we survey your property but the main areas to consider are explained below.
Gas Safety Regulations and the Gas Safe Register
This provides very strict rules regarding rented property and specifically places an obligation on landlords to provide tenants with an annual Gas Safety Certificate. Legislation states that each gas appliance must be checked every year to confirm its safe operation and the property must have gas soundness check which includes all pipework back to the meter. These checks must be carried out by a qualified engineer who will produce a Landlords Gas Safety Certificate detailing each appliance and the property soundness. A copy of the Gas Safety Certificate must be provided to tenant before they move into the property and copies of expired Gas Safety Certificates must be retained for a least two years.
The Electrical Equipment and Safety Regulations
Landlords are responsible for the safety of tenants which includes providing a safe property in which to live. There are legal obligations to ensure that all mains household electrical appliances are safe to use and dangerous or non-repairable items should be removed. Although not mandatory an NICEIC qualified electrical engineer can carry out a property electrical check which would include appliances and issue a safety certificate. Operating instructions should also be left in the property for the tenants guidance.
Furniture and Furnishings Regulations
Soft furnishings such as Mattresses, Settees, Bed Bases, Cushions and Padded Headboards must meet fire resistance standards and carry a permanent label confirming compliance. If compliance can not be proved then the item must be removed from the property. The majority of prospective tenants will be looking to rent an unfurnished property and you should be aware that any items left should be maintained at the landlords expense.
Smoke Detectors
Legislation passed in 2006 made it mandatory for Landlords to provide a smoke detector alarm on each floor of rented properties. The legislation also states that every time the property has a new tenant the batteries in the smoke alarm must be replaced. Smoke Alarms are included in our property inspections as tenants do have a tendancy to remove the batteries from smoke alarms especially when they are positioned near the kitchen so this should be a consideration when installing Smoke Alarms.
Note: The penalty for failure to comply with statutory safety legislation is currently a fine of up to £5000 and 6 months imprisonment for each offence. The punishments are much harsher in the case of injury and especially fatality.