Legal References & Legislation
Complete legal framework for private renting in England, with links to official sources.
Official Government Guidance
How to Rent Guide
Must be provided to all new AST tenants. Updated regularly - always use latest version.
Download latest version →How to Let Guide
Comprehensive guide for landlords on legal requirements and best practices.
Download guide →Right to Rent Checks
Landlord's guide to conducting immigration checks and acceptable documents.
View code of practice →HHSRS Operating Guidance
Housing Health and Safety Rating System - 29 hazards assessment framework.
View HHSRS guidance →Electrical Safety Standards Guidance
Detailed guidance on EICR requirements and remedial work timelines.
View electrical safety guide →MEES Guidance
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards - exemptions and improvement requirements.
View MEES guidance →Renters' Rights Bill
Proposed abolition of Section 21 and strengthening of tenant protections.
View proposed changes →Key Penalties & Enforcement Powers
Civil Penalties (up to £30,000)
- • Operating unlicensed HMO
- • Breach of improvement notice
- • Electrical safety failures
- • Breach of banning order
Criminal Prosecution
- • Gas safety violations (unlimited fine)
- • Unlicensed HMO (unlimited fine)
- • Illegal eviction/harassment
- • Fire safety breaches
Rent Repayment Orders
- • Up to 12 months' rent repayment
- • For unlicensed properties
- • Illegal eviction
- • Breach of banning order
Invalid Section 21
- • No EPC or Gas Safety Certificate
- • Deposit not protected
- • No "How to Rent" guide
- • Within 4 months of complaint