General requirements

Electrical sockets

There should be a minimum of 4 single (2 double) socket outlets suitably located in bedrooms and 6 single (3 double) socket outlets in living rooms.

Anti-social behaviour

Tenants should be made aware of their obligation to occupy the property with consideration and respect for their neighbours. It is expected that tenancy agreements will include clauses that lay out the requirements to occupy the property quietly, respect the fact that working people and families get up and go to bed earlier and that owners expect to be able to quietly enjoy their property and its outside space. They must also make sure the tenants are aware of the correct days for rubbish and recycling collection so that refuse doesn’t pile up and overflow in the front garden.

If not included in the tenancy agreement, these requirements should be contained in a written statement displayed in a suitable position in the house such as the main hallway.

Owners and agents should ultimately bear some responsibility for any continuing nuisance caused by tenants. If requested to do so, they should produce to the council evidence to show that they are taking appropriate action to enforce the tenancy agreement. This means instigating possession proceedings if the problem continues.

Gardens

Any gardens should be maintained so that they don’t become overgrown and unruly. Grass should be cut regularly, and gardens should not become a dumping ground for rubbish and disused items that could attract rats and mice.

Displaying of landlord contact details

The landlord, manager or agent must display a visible notice in a suitable position in the property containing the name, address and telephone number of the person managing the property, including an emergency contact number. These details are to be kept up to date.

Conservatories

Conservatories are unlikely to meet the requirements of the current Building Regulations in terms of fixed heating and thermal insulation and will therefore not be counted as a bedroom, lounge, dining room or kitchen unless they meet the relevant requirements.