This article is part of the "Tenant Rights in England" series, built on the legal framework presented in the overview article: "England's renting laws: what's already in force and what's coming next".

Each article in this series explains one major area of renting law, focusing on real-life situations, common letting agent practices, and the gap between legal duties and everyday reality.

This article covers point 3 from the legal list: housing safety and legal living standards in England's private rented sector.

3) Housing safety: what must be legally in place in a rented home

Housing safety is not optional and does not depend on goodwill. English law sets clear minimum standards that a property must meet to be legally rented.

3.1 Gas safety checks

Any property with gas must undergo annual safety checks by a registered engineer. The safety certificate must be provided to the tenant.

Example: if the agent cannot supply a valid gas safety certificate, the property is not legally compliant.

3.2 Electrical safety

Electrical installations must be periodically inspected and supported by a valid safety report.

Example: exposed wiring or faulty sockets indicate a safety breach, not a minor issue.

3.3 Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

Smoke alarms and, where required, carbon monoxide alarms must be installed and working at the start of the tenancy.

3.4 Fire safety

Multi-occupancy buildings must comply with fire safety requirements, including fire doors and clear escape routes.

3.5 The "Decent Homes Standard"

Homes must be safe, healthy, and suitable for occupation. Delays due to "awaiting landlord approval" are no longer acceptable.

3.6 Damp and mould

Damp and mould are health issues. Downplaying them as ventilation problems alone is not legally sufficient.

3.7 Repairs and reasonable timescales

Safety-related repairs must be carried out within a reasonable time, especially in urgent situations.

3.8 The role of letting agents

Letting agents managing properties have an active role. Knowledge without action can make them accountable.

3.9 Tenant options

Tenants can request repairs in writing, keep evidence, and contact the local authority if issues remain unresolved.

3.10 Why safety matters

Safety is a core legal obligation, not an optional cost. Understanding this shifts the balance in the tenant-agent relationship.

This is the third thematic article in the "Tenant Rights in England" series.