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Landlord FAQ’s

From inspections to inventories, electrical inspections to council tax, we know there’s a lot you need to remember as a landlord. We have covered a few of the most frequently asked questions we hear from new and existing landlords below.

Living Abroad

Question – How does renting my home in the UK work if I live overseas?
If you live abroad, or are moving abroad, we are legally required to deduct tax from your rental income unless you’re registered with HMRC’s Non-Resident Landlord Scheme. Once approved, your rent can be paid without tax deductions. We’ll be happy to guide you through the application process and provide the necessary documentation.

Mortgage
Question – Do I need to tell my mortgage company?
Yes. If your property is mortgaged, you must get your lender’s permission before renting it out. Some lenders may change your interest rate or charge an administration fee. Speak to them early so you understand any financial implications before proceeding.
Income Tax

Question – Do I have to pay tax on my rental income?
Yes. Rental income is classed as taxable income by HMRC. You may be able to offset certain allowances and expenses—your accountant or HMRC can give you detailed guidance. Under Self-Assessment, landlords must keep accurate income and expense records for each tax year.

Insurance

Question – What cover do I need?
As the landlord, you must have buildings insurance and, if applicable, landlord-specific contents insurance. Your tenant is responsible for insuring their own possessions. We can recommend trusted landlord insurance providers.

Inventory

Question – What is an inventory, and why is it important?
An inventory is a detailed record of your property’s condition, contents, and décor at the start of a tenancy. It’s essential for resolving disputes over damage or missing items and is used when deciding whether any deductions should be made from the tenant’s deposit at the end of the tenancy.

Repairs

Question – What are my repair obligations?
You are responsible for maintaining:
  • The structure and exterior of the property
  • Plumbing, sinks, baths, toilets, and pipework
  • Heating, hot water, and ventilation
  • Gas appliances, wiring, and electrical installations
If damage is caused by a tenant, they’re responsible for the repair cost.

Regulations

Question – What key regulations do I need to comply with?
   • Gas Safety Certificate – renewed annually
   • Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) – renewed every 5 years
   • Smoke Alarms – on each floor used for living
   • Carbon Monoxide Alarms – in rooms with gas appliances or solid fuel
   • EPC – rating must be E or above (stricter rules may be coming)
We can arrange all of these for you.

Council Tax
Question – Who pays the council tax?
When the property is tenanted, the tenant pays council tax. If it’s vacant, the responsibility falls to the landlord.
EPCs
Question – How are EPCs calculated?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is calculated by analysing how homes are constructed, insulated, heated and ventilated, and the type of fuel being used. There are many ways to improve your property’s EPC rating, which you can read about here.
The Renters’ Rights Bill 2025
Question – What is the Renters’ Rights Bill 2025?
It’s a major reform designed to give tenants more security and create a fairer, more transparent rental market—while keeping clear protections in place for landlords.
Question – What happens when Section 21 is abolished?
“No-fault” evictions will go. You can still regain possession if you have a valid reason, such as selling the property or moving back in yourself.
Question – What are open-ended tenancies?
These will replace most fixed-term contracts with rolling agreements. Benefits for landlords include less paperwork, longer tenant stays, and fewer void periods.
Question – Can I still set my own rent?
Yes. We’ll help you set a fair market rate based on comparable evidence. Under the new rules, “rental bidding wars” will be banned—your advertised rent will be the rent offered.
Question – Are there new anti-discrimination rules?
Yes. You cannot reject tenants simply because they’re on benefits or have children. We will still carry out full affordability, credit, and reference checks to ensure suitability.
Question – What is the ‘Decent Homes Standard’?
This will require all rental properties to meet certain safety and quality standards—helping you avoid long-term maintenance issues and keeping tenants happy.
Question – Do I have to allow pets?
You must consider pet requests reasonably. You can decline for valid reasons, such as lease restrictions, but you cannot impose blanket bans.
Question – How should I prepare?
Get in contact and we’ll keep you fully informed as the changes come in and guide you through any required updates. Our aim is to help you stay compliant, protect your investment, and enjoy a smooth letting experience.

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