Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1988
A Landlords Gas Safety Inspection must be carried out once a year, and a certificate must be issued. A certificate lasts for a period of one year, and must be current for the duration of the let. A copy of the certificate must also remain within the property during the let. Inspections must be carried out by a GasSafe registered engineer. We will require a copy of the certificate prior to proceeding with the let.
The Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988
All upholstery and upholstered furnishings, loose fittings, permanent or loose covers provided in rented property must comply with Fire Resistance standards. Any furniture purchased after 1990 is likely to comply. Furniture manufactured prior to 1950 ins no covered by regulations. Regulations do not apply to carpets, curtains, towels or bed linen.
The Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994
Although it is not a mandatory requirement, we recommend that you carry out Portable Appliance Testing on all portable electrical equipment that will be included in the let. You should also satisfy yourself as to the condition of the electrical circuits in the property. Industry guidelines suggest that as a minimum, electrical circuits should be tested once every five years.
Insurance Cover
You must have appropriate insurance cover in place for the duration of the let. You must advise your insurer of your intention to let the property. As a minimum, you should have Buildings and Contents insurance in place. We suggest that you also arrange cover for accidental damage, and have in place public liability insurance cover up to £2,000,000.
We will require confirmation from your insurer prior to the completion of the letting agreement that the minimum cover specified above will be in place for the duration of the let. Without this information, we will be unable to proceed with the let.
Fire and Gas Safety Devices
Modern Fire Detectors and Smoke Alarms should be fitted throughout the property. From 3rd September 2007, all properties offered for rent must be fitted with mains powered smoke alarms with a battery backup.
We also recommend that properties equipped with gas appliances should have Carbon Monoxide detectors fitted in the appropriate places.
* Please Note - if you are uncertain about the Fire Safety arrangements in your household, your local fire brigade will carry out a free Home Fire Safety Visit. Ask one of our staff for a Home Fire Safety Visit request form.