However, just because qualifications are not required does not mean there is nothing to learn. Being a landlord comes with legal responsibilities, and if you do not follow the rules, you could face fines or other legal action.
Understanding Legal Duties
Landlords must follow a range of laws to keep tenants safe and protect their rights. This includes making sure the property is safe to live in, carrying out repairs, and protecting the tenant’s deposit in a government-approved scheme. In England, landlords must also check that tenants have the right to rent under immigration rules. Failure to do this can lead to fines.
Even though there is no legal need to get training, understanding these laws is very important, especially when it comes to dealing with sitting tenants. Not knowing the rules is not an excuse if something goes wrong. That is why many new landlords choose to take short courses or get advice from letting agents or landlord associations.
Licensing and Local Rules
Some local councils require landlords to have a licence before they can rent out a property. This is called “selective licensing.” It often applies in areas where there are concerns about housing standards or anti-social behaviour. In these areas, landlords must apply for a licence and sometimes pass a “fit and proper person” test.
According to the English Housing Survey 2022, around 18% of homes in England are privately rented, and councils are increasingly using licensing to improve standards.
If you are renting out a house in multiple occupation (HMO), like a shared house with more than three tenants, you will need a mandatory HMO licence in most cases. These licences often require landlords to take extra safety measures.
Training Can Be Helpful
While not needed by law, many landlords choose to take training offered by groups like the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA). These courses cover topics like health and safety, tenancy agreements, and dealing with problem tenants. This can help new landlords avoid costly mistakes and run their property more smoothly.
You do not need formal training or qualifications to be a landlord in the UK, but understanding your legal responsibilities is vital. Taking time to learn the rules and get advice can help you stay on the right side of the law and keep your tenants happy.
