Hello readers,
If you’re familiar with my articles, you’ll know I’m a big advocate for HMOs. They offer excellent returns with strong positive cash flow. That being said, HMOs aren’t for everyone, and while single lets may generate less cash flow, many of you choose to invest in them, or have already started doing so.
There are several advantages to single lets over HMOs, and it really comes down to personal preference. Single lets typically have lower startup costs, are easier to manage, and allow investors to benefit from strong capital appreciation by holding multiple properties.
Another key advantage is that single lets come with fewer compliance requirements. In recent weeks, I’ve had several landlords ask about the specific health and safety obligations for single lets, as well as potential changes under the Renters’ Rights Bill. With that in mind, I’ve put together a brief overview that I hope you’ll find useful.
I’ll break down the key points and then touch on the upcoming changes later in the year.
Gas safety
- Ensure all gas appliances, fittings, and flues are correctly installed and maintained by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
- Arrange annual gas safety checks for each appliance and flue.
- Provide tenants with a copy of the gas safety check record before they move in and within 28 days of each subsequent check.
Electrical safety
- Confirm that the property’s electrical system, including sockets and light fittings, is safe.
- Ensure all supplied appliances are in good working order.
- Arrange an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every five years to assess the safety of wiring and electrical installations.
- Provide tenants with a copy of the EICR before they move in and within 28 days of each new report.
Fire safety
- Install a smoke alarm on every floor of the property.
- Fit a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm in any room with a solid fuel-burning appliance.
- Ensure tenants can always access escape routes, keeping windows operable, keys available, and locks in working order.
- Test smoke and CO alarms on move-in day and keep a record of the check.
Property repairs
- Maintain the property’s structure and exterior, including the walls, roof, and windows.
- Repair sinks, basins, baths, and sanitary fittings, along with any related plumbing and drainage.
- Ensure heating and hot water systems remain in good working order.
- Address any problems with gas appliances, flues, ventilation, or electrical wiring.
Heating, power, and water failures
Did you know that under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords must maintain the property’s structure and essential systems, including heating, electrical wiring, and plumbing?
If a tenant reports an issue, landlords are required to act promptly and this means that for:
- Heating and hot water – Repairs should be completed within a reasonable timeframe, ideally within 24 hours in winter.
- Electrical failures – Any loss of power must be resolved swiftly to prevent tenant hardship.
- Water supply issues – If running water is unavailable, landlords must arrange repairs as quickly as possible.
If immediate fixes aren’t possible, landlords should provide temporary solutions, such as portable heaters, bottled water, or alternative accommodation if necessary. Delays can lead to legal action, compensation claims, or enforcement by local authorities.
Landlords should also be familiar with the Fitness for Human Habitation Act that I talk about here.
Potential Changes under the Renters’ Rights Bill
The Renters’ Rights Bill includes several potential changes here and this includes extending the Decent Homes Standard to the private rental sector. These changes are being discussed and not yet confirmed.
This means all rental properties must meet minimum living and safety conditions and I have outlined these below:
Keeping the property in good repair
Landlords must ensure their properties remain structurally sound and in a satisfactory condition. This covers essential elements such as roofs, walls, windows, and doors, as well as interior features like heating, plumbing, and kitchen facilities. Instead of assessing repairs based on whether a component is ‘key’ or ‘non-key,’ the focus is now on whether it is functional and fit for purpose.
Providing modern and practical facilities
Rental homes must have a well-designed kitchen no older than 20 years and a bathroom under 30 years old. Adequate noise insulation and appropriately maintained shared entrance areas are also required. If physical or planning constraints prevent modernisation, this won’t automatically result in non-compliance—alternative solutions, including redevelopment, may be considered in extreme cases.
Ensuring proper heating and insulation
Landlords must provide an efficient heating system capable of warming at least two rooms in the property. Properties with oil or gas heating must have cavity wall insulation or a minimum of 50mm loft insulation, while those with electric storage heaters or solid fuel systems must meet a 200mm loft insulation requirement. The aim is to maintain a warm and habitable home, in line with Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) guidelines.
Tackling damp and mould
A major focus of the new legislation is addressing damp and mould, following the tragic case of Awaab Ishak. Under Awaab’s Law, landlords will be legally required to resolve damp and mould issues within set timeframes, with urgent action required within 24 hours.
Beyond the legal obligations, maintaining properties to a high standard is always beneficial as it helps minimise void periods and secures the best rental returns.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on these updates. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out at hasan@home-share.co.uk.
Hasan
