Scheduled website maintenance – Sunday 15 March
Some of our online forms and registers (including food hygiene ratings and HMO licences) may be unavailable between 9am and midday.
The rest of the website will remain available.
Guide for private landlords - 4. Repairs, maintenance and safety
You must keep your property safe and well-maintained at all times.
Current requirements (legally enforceable now):
- homes must be free from hazards under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)
- annual Gas Safety Certificate
- Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every 5 years
- working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms
If your property is an HMO (shared by 3 or more people from 2+ households):
- you may need a licence from Norwich City Council
- you must comply with all HMO management standards (fire safety, amenities, space, cleanliness)
The upcoming legislation proposes:
- applying the Decent Homes Standard to all private rented homes
- introducing Awaab’s Law time limits for fixing serious hazards such as damp and mould
Good practice:
- act quickly on repair requests
- keep detailed records of inspections, reports, and actions taken
- use competent contractors and ensure certification is up to date
