Your responsibilities as a private landlord
You have several responsibilities as a private landlord.
You’re legally responsible for these, even if you use a letting agent to manage your property.
Registration
It’s your responsibility to register as a landlord. You must register with the local council that covers the area the property is in.
You must renew your registration every 3 years.
Get more information on registering as a landlord.
Tenancy agreements, deposits and rent
You must follow the rules for:
- using the correct documentation when setting up a tenancy agreement
- taking and protecting a tenancy deposit
- rent increases
- dealing with a tenant’s rent arrears
- ending a tenancy or evicting a tenant
Safety, repairs and home energy
You must:
- make sure your property meets legal safety and repair standards
- check if you need a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licence
- make sure the property has an Energy Performance Certificate
- follow rules for accessing the property
You must meet certain standards if your property has a private water supply.
Antisocial behaviour
You must try to resolve any antisocial behaviour by your tenant or visitors to the property.
Get more information on dealing with antisocial behaviour.
Insurance and mortgage
You should tell your insurer and mortgage lender about your plans to rent out the property.
Insurers may need you to update your policies. Renting your property out may impact your mortgage terms.
You're responsible for having appropriate buildings insurance for properties in a tenement.
Income tax
It’s your responsibility to pay any income tax on your property rental income.