Letting a property to tenants involves a number of legal and practical steps. This checklist covers the essentials landlords need to have in place before handing over the keys.

Before you let

Check the tenant’s right to rent in the UK
Carry out reference and affordability checks
Protect the deposit in a government approved scheme within 30 days
Arrange a gas safety check and, where required, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Install working smoke alarms on each floor and a carbon monoxide alarm in rooms with a solid fuel appliance

At the start of the tenancy

Prepare a detailed inventory with photos, and share it with the tenant
Provide the tenant with the How to Rent guide, the EPC and the gas safety certificate
Set out the tenancy agreement clearly, including rent, deposit and notice periods

During the tenancy

Keep records of any repairs, inspections and correspondence with your tenant. Respond promptly to maintenance requests, and carry out any required safety checks again each year.

If you are letting a property for the first time, it is worth speaking to a letting agent or landlord association for guidance specific to your circumstances.