New ‘How to rent guide’ is published

The updated ‘How to rent guide’ has been published and includes the latest advice for landlords and tenants on renting a property in England.

This is the first update since July 2021 and the guide must be issued by landlords and letting agents – and to those tenants who are renewing a tenancy.

The latest guide must be handed to renters before they move in because failing to do so might invalidate a Section 21 notice.

Original publication date last week was delayed

The original publication date last week was delayed for final tweaks by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities (DHLUC).

Propertymark says the latest guide offers:

• Updated information on Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations 2022
• Changes to the Code of Practice on Right to Rent Civil Penalty Scheme for landlords and their agents.
• Advice on Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR)
• Information on fitting smart meters.

The organisation also says there is a section on ensuring the property is suitable if a tenant has a disability.

Propertymark helped the Department with the revisions

Nathan Emerson, Propertymark’s chief executive, said: “We are pleased to have worked with the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities on the revisions.

“It is vital that agents operating in England are aware of the updated version and the implications on the tenancies they manage.

“The latest version must be provided to tenants for new tenancies and renewals although it is advisable to provide the updated version to tenants in ongoing tenancies.”

Help understand their responsibilities and rights

The DHLUC says its guide for landlords and tenants in the private rented sector (PRS) will help them understand their responsibilities and rights.

It also says the guide should be handed to a tenant by the landlord or letting agent.

They add that there is no need to provide the document again if the assured shorthold tenancy is renewed – unless the document has been updated.

Checklist and detailed information on the renting process

The DHLUC says the latest guide offers a checklist and detailed information on the renting process, including:

• What to look out for before renting
• Living in a rented home
• What happens at the end of a tenancy?
• What to do if things go wrong.

Propertymark also wants the DHLUC to consider reviewing and updating the guide on an annual basis – and published on a set day so agents and landlords will know if a new version is available, or not.

The PDF version of the ‘How to rent guide’ can be downloaded from the.Gov.uk site.