What Property Assessments Do I Need?

If you own a property, you have a legal responsibility to ensure that it is safe. The duties vary depending on the use of the property. For example, there are different terms for HMOs than for single occupier rentals. Businesses and even vacant lots can also be subject to legal oversight.

At Assessment Hive, we can help you identify which property assessments you need for compliance. In this post, we have outlined which properties require each type of evaluation and how often they should be completed.

Fire Risk Assessment

The law demands fire risk assessments for a large number of premises.

For HMOs and any residential property with shared areas, the landlord or property owner is responsible for completing these assessments. They need to get a competent person to complete a fire risk assessment.

In a business property, a named responsible person is in charge of getting the assessment completed. This role could fall on any number of people, but this role must be clear and defined. However, there is a problem; it is important to remember that all parties will be responsible.

You should review your fire risk assessments regularly. This is to check that they remain fit for purpose. Furthermore, you will need to get a new assessment if there is any significant change to the property; this includes a change of tenants.

Electrical Safety Assessment

All landlords need to ensure that an electrical safety assessment is carried out on their properties. This applies to HMOs as well. The inspection should be carried out at least every five years. Or whenever there is a change in tenant, whichever comes first.

Gas Certificate

Landlords have a legal responsibility to have a gas safety check undertaken annually. They must also keep a record of these certificates. The inspections must be completed by a Gas Safe registered inspector.

Energy Performance Certificate

Before you rent a property, you must get an EPC certificate. This is the energy rating of the property. The property must have a rating of E or higher before you can rent it out. You will need to get a new certificate if you make any major structural changes to your property.

Legionella Risk Assessments

If you are the landlord of a domestic rental property, you must keep people safe. However, this does not extend to needing to get a legionella risk assessment.

If you are an employer or responsible for a place where people work, you will need to ensure that a legionella risk assessment is completed. You need to get a new one every year.

Vacant Property Inspection

If you own a property that is sitting empty, then you are still responsible for it. You can be liable for accidents or injuries the occur on the site. If you arrange for a vacant property inspection, this can keep you on the right side of the law. It may also be necessary to keep your insurer happy. This can identify any actions you need to take to keep your property safe.

If you need help ensuring you maintain compliance as a landlord with the right property assessments, get in touch with Assessment Hive, who can help organise, complete and manage any remedial property work on your behalf.