In Greenwich, landlords are required to maintain their rental properties to a high standard, ensuring that they are safe, habitable, and fully compliant with the law. Meeting these obligations is crucial for protecting tenants, preserving property value, and avoiding potential legal issues. Below is a summary of the key responsibilities that landlords in Greenwich must adhere to:

1. Fire Safety Compliance: Compliance with fire safety regulations is essential. Landlords must ensure that smoke alarms are installed on every floor, carbon monoxide detectors are in rooms with solid fuel-burning appliances, and that Fire Risk Assessments are conducted regularly, particularly in multi-occupancy buildings. Additionally, escape routes should be clear and tenants must be provided with fire safety information.

2. Electrical Safety: Landlords are responsible for ensuring that the electrical installations in their properties are safe. An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is required to certify the safety of the electrical systems. This report should be updated every five years or at the start of a new tenancy, with a copy provided to the tenant.

3. Gas Safety: All gas appliances, fittings, and flues in rental properties must undergo an annual inspection by a registered Gas Safe engineer. A Gas Safety Certificate must be issued following this inspection, and a copy provided to tenants within 28 days of the check or at the start of a new tenancy. This ensures the safety of the property’s gas systems.

4. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Before letting a property, landlords must provide an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to tenants. This certificate, which is valid for ten years, rates the energy efficiency of the property. To comply with legal standards, the property must have an EPC rating of at least E.

5. Asbestos Management: For properties built before 2000, an Asbestos Management Survey is necessary. This survey identifies any asbestos-containing materials and provides guidance on managing them safely, helping to protect tenants and anyone working on the property from potential health risks.

6. Property Maintenance and Repairs: Landlords have a legal duty to keep their properties in good condition, covering the structure, exterior, and essential systems such as heating, plumbing, and electrical installations. Promptly addressing maintenance and repair requests from tenants is crucial to ensuring the property remains safe and comfortable to live in.

7. Tenant Rights and Responsibilities: Providing a clear written tenancy agreement is essential. This agreement should detail the terms of the tenancy, including rent, notice periods, and the responsibilities of both the landlord and tenant regarding property upkeep. Additionally, landlords must protect tenant deposits in a government-approved deposit protection scheme.

Landord Checks is committed to assisting landlords in meeting their legal responsibilities and maintaining high standards across the borough. By adhering to these obligations, landlords help ensure the safety and well-being of their tenants, contributing to a better living environment in Greenwich.