A landlord group has warned that maintaining detailed records will be vital for landlords and their agents once legal changes under the Renters’ Rights Act take effect.

Local councils will get new enforcement measures and investigatory powers on 27th December so they can gather evidence about suspected breaches and offences before punishing errant landlords. iHowz says councils can request a wide range of compliance documents that will have to be kept on record.

“Councils can request these documents from landlords, agents, and anyone who held an interest in a property over the previous 12 months such as a landlord who recently sold the property,” it explains. “This makes maintaining meticulous records more vital than ever for landlords and their agents.”

Requested

The requested documents include: tenancy agreements, Deposit Protection Certificates and Prescribed Information, Right to Rent check records, Gas Safety and Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) Certificates, Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), legal notices served, repair and maintenance records, relevant council licensing certificates and high penalties for non-compliance.

Landlords who fail to comply with different elements of the regulations, including failing to keep appropriate paperwork or give tenants vital documents, could face fines of between £7,000 and £40,000.

Documents

“While most letting agents will already have these documents on file, many self-managing landlords will likely be unable to comply,” adds iHowz. “This presents a clear opportunity for agents to inform landlords about the rigorous nature of these new powers and the severe penalties for non-compliance.”

The government has given councils an extra £18 million to enforce these regulations. It has also promised to use a multi-platform advertising campaign, partnership marketing, and social media so landlords understand what’s needed to be compliant.

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