Even the Experts Slip Up: Why Compliance Matters More Than Ever for Landlords

When three senior politicians – including the Chancellor – are caught out by basic landlord rules, it’s a timely reminder that no one is immune to compliance errors.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves admitted she had rented out her London home without the correct selective licence from Southwark Council. Earlier this year, Rushanara Ali, Minister for Homelessness, stepped down after reports she re-advertised a property at a higher rent straight after ending her tenants’ lease. And Angela Rayner, former Deputy Prime Minister, resigned following an investigation into underpaid Stamp Duty Land Tax  on a Hove flat.

These cases underline a simple truth: even experienced professionals can overlook the legal essentials of letting.

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The Legal Basics Every Landlord Must Get Right

Before you hand over the keys, make sure you can tick these boxes:

1. Check local licensing rules – Some areas require mandatory, additional or selective licences.

2. Get consent to let – Your mortgage, insurer or leaseholder may require written permission.

3. Provide an EPC – A minimum rating of E is required, and tenants must receive a copy before moving in.

4. Stay safety-compliant – Annual Gas Safety Certificate, five-yearly EICR, plus smoke and CO alarms where needed.

5. Protect deposits – Register within 30 days and issue prescribed information.

6. Right to Rent checks – Verify every adult occupier’s immigration status.

7. Provide key documents – Tenancy agreement, How to Rent guide, EPC, Gas, EICR certificates, and deposit details.

8. Follow the Tenant Fees Act 2019 – Only charge permitted fees.

9. Maintain the property – Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 sets out your repair obligations.

10. Use valid notices – Section 21 or 8 notices can be invalidated if compliance isn’t met.

11. Declare rental income correctly – Keep tax records up to date and use compliant digital systems.

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Why This Matters

Missing even one requirement can lead to:

• Fines or rent-repayment orders

• Invalid possession notices

• Reputational damage – especially in today’s digital landscape

At Personal Economy Lettings, we see compliance not as a tick-box exercise, but as part of protecting your investment and reputation.

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Expert Perspective

Lisa Bailey, Residential Lettings Manager at Personal Economy Lettings, comments:

“Even seasoned landlords and senior professionals can overlook the fundamentals. Compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties – it’s about protecting your investment, maintaining tenant trust, and ensuring your property is safe and well-managed. Getting the basics right gives you peace of mind and helps you avoid costly mistakes later.”

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Get the Support You Need

If you’re a self-managing landlord, staying compliant can feel like a full-time job. That’s exactly why we created LettingsPA – our dedicated support service designed to help landlords stay in control while keeping fully compliant.

From licence checks to safety certificates, deposit protection and documentation, LettingsPA acts as your personal compliance partner – so you can manage your own tenancy confidently, without the stress or risk.

👉 Book your free Compliance Confidence Check to see where you stand – and how LettingsPA can help protect your rental the smart way.

📞 [Book your Clarity Call →

https://personaleconomypartners.com/landing/book-a-clarity-call

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