Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Landlords · Compliance
Letting legally in London: the 2026 checklist
Gasevery year
EICRevery 5 years
EPCE or above
Licensingborough rules
In short: Before you let a property in London, you need a gas safety certificate, an electrical safety report, an EPC rated E or above, working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, deposit protection, right to rent checks and, in many boroughs, a property licence. Since 1 May 2026, tenancies are periodic, you must give tenants a written statement of terms, you can't take more than a month's rent in advance, and you can't refuse tenants simply because they have children or receive benefits. Fraser Bond handles compliance for the landlords we manage for.
Landlord compliance checklist
| Requirement | How often | Penalty risk |
|---|---|---|
| Gas safety | Every 12 months | Criminal offence and fines |
| EICR | At least every 5 years | Fines from the council |
| EPC | Every 10 years (E minimum) | Fines |
| Deposit protection | Within 30 days | Compensation claims |
| Licensing | Per scheme (often 5 years) | Fines and rent repayment orders |
Key landlord duties in England
- Periodic tenancies with no fixed end date
- No Section 21: possession needs a legal ground
- Max one month's rent in advance; no bidding above the advertised rent
- No blanket bans on benefits or children
- Tenants can request pets
- Mandatory HMO licensing for 5+ people from 2+ households
- Many boroughs run additional or selective licensing
- Check your council's current schemes
- Declare rental income through Self Assessment
- Overseas landlords: the Non-Resident Landlord Scheme
- Mortgage interest gets a basic-rate tax credit
Fraser Bond full management
- Certificates booked and tracked
- Licensing applications
- Deposit protection and written terms
- Rent collection and inspections
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence to rent out my London flat?
It depends on the borough and the property. Many boroughs license some or all private rentals.
Can I still use a Section 21 notice?
No. Since 1 May 2026, landlords must use a Section 8 ground.
How long is an EPC valid?
10 years, but the property must meet the minimum E rating to be let.
Want compliance handled for you?
Our full management keeps your letting legal.
Speak to our teamList your property
