If you rent out a property in London — whether a single flat, a house in multiple occupation (HMO), or a commercial unit — you are legally required to hold a number of compliance certificates. Failing to have the right certificates can result in heavy fines, prosecution, and in some cases, invalidated landlord insurance.

This guide covers every certificate a London landlord needs in 2026 and how often each must be renewed.

1. Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) — Required Every Year

Any rental property in London with gas appliances must have a valid Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) issued by a Gas Safe registered engineer. As a landlord you must:

• Have all gas appliances, flues and pipework inspected annually
• Give a copy to your tenant within 28 days of the inspection
• Provide a copy to new tenants before they move in
• Keep records for a minimum of 2 years

Penalty for non-compliance: Up to 6 months in prison and/or an unlimited fine.

2. EICR — Electrical Installation Condition Report — Required Every 5 Years

Since July 2020, all private landlords in England must have a valid EICR for every rental property. An EICR must be carried out by a qualified electrician and renewed every five years, or sooner if the inspector recommends it.

• New tenants must receive a copy before moving in
• Existing tenants must receive a copy within 28 days of the check
• Local councils can request a copy at any time — you must provide it within 7 days

Penalty for non-compliance: Local authorities can issue fines of up to £30,000.

3. Fire Risk Assessment — Required for HMOs and Communal Areas

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, a written fire risk assessment is a legal requirement for:

• All HMOs (houses in multiple occupation) regardless of size
• Properties with communal areas (blocks of flats, apartment buildings)
• Commercial premises let to businesses

The assessment must be reviewed regularly — annually for most HMOs — and updated whenever significant changes are made to the property.

Penalty for non-compliance: Unlimited fines and up to 2 years in prison.

4. EPC — Energy Performance Certificate — Required Every 10 Years

An EPC rates your property's energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Since April 2018, properties must achieve a minimum rating of band E before they can be legally let. EPCs are valid for 10 years and must be:

• Available before marketing the property to let
• Given to the tenant free of charge

Penalty for non-compliance: Fines of up to £5,000.

5. Asbestos Management Survey — Required in Pre-2000 Properties

If your rental property was built before the year 2000, you have a duty to manage any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Before any renovation or maintenance work, a refurbishment/demolition asbestos survey is legally required. A management survey should be carried out and the results documented to protect tenants and contractors.

Additional Certificates for London HMO Landlords

• HMO Licence — required for larger HMOs (5+ occupants, 2+ households)
• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms — must be fitted and tested on every storey
• Emergency lighting — required in communal areas of larger HMOs and commercial premises
• PAT testing — required for any electrical appliances you provide as a landlord

Summary Table

Get All Your Certificates From One Provider

The Safety Certs provides all landlord compliance certificates across London and the M25. Our qualified engineers cover every borough — from Walthamstow and Hackney to Croydon, Barnet and beyond. Same-day and next-day appointments available.

Call +44 7474 765 990 or request a free quote online.