Your Responsibilities as a Landlord

Being a landlord comes with clear legal and practical responsibilities. When these are understood and handled properly, tenancies tend to run more smoothly, risks reduce and relationships with tenants improve.

This guide outlines the core responsibilities landlords have in Hemel Hempstead and across Hertfordshire, based on what we see most often in day to day property management.

Providing a safe and habitable home

Landlords must ensure the property is safe and fit to live in from the start of the tenancy and throughout its duration.

This includes the structure of the building, safe access, weatherproofing, and properly functioning key systems such as heating, electrics and plumbing.

Gas, electrical and fire safety

Safety compliance is non negotiable.

• Annual gas safety checks by a registered engineer
• Electrical safety inspections at required intervals
• Working smoke alarms on each floor
• Carbon monoxide alarms where applicable

Certificates must be provided to tenants and kept up to date.

Repairs and ongoing maintenance

Landlords are responsible for maintaining the structure and exterior of the property, as well as fixed installations such as heating systems, boilers, wiring and sanitary fittings.

Responding promptly to reported issues helps prevent minor problems becoming costly repairs.

Deposits and prescribed information

Deposits must be protected in an approved government scheme within the required timeframe.

Tenants must receive the correct prescribed information explaining where the deposit is held and how disputes are handled.

Right to rent checks

Landlords are required to carry out right to rent checks before the tenancy begins. These checks confirm a tenant’s legal right to rent property in England.

Checks should be completed correctly and recorded.

Respecting tenant privacy

Tenants have the right to quiet enjoyment of the property. Access should only be requested with reasonable notice, except in genuine emergencies.

Clear communication around inspections and repairs helps maintain trust.

Providing clear documentation

Tenants must receive the correct documentation at the start of the tenancy. This typically includes the tenancy agreement, safety certificates, deposit information and relevant government guidance.

Managing the tenancy professionally

Professional management involves clear communication, fair handling of rent reviews and consistent responses to maintenance requests.

Well managed tenancies are more stable and less likely to end in dispute.

Why understanding your responsibilities matters

Failure to meet obligations can lead to fines, enforcement action and difficulty regaining possession if needed.

Landlords who stay informed and organised are better protected.

Download the full guide

The full guide expands on each responsibility and includes practical checklists landlords can refer back to.

Disclaimer: This guide is general information only and does not constitute legal advice.