Published: May 2025
Category: Legal | Compliance

Missing one piece of paperwork can make your tenancy unenforceable — or worse, illegal.

In 2025, with rental regulations tightening and Section 21 notices disappearing, getting your legal documents right is non-negotiable.

Here are the five essential documents every landlord must issue at the start of a tenancy — and what happens if you don’t.

✅ 1. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

- Must be issued before marketing the property

- Must be rated E or above (C from 2028 for new tenancies)

- Tenants must receive a copy before move-in

Without it: You can’t legally let the property — or issue a valid Section 21 (if still applicable).

✅ 2. Gas Safety Certificate (CP12)

- Required if the property has gas appliances

- Must be renewed annually

- Tenants must receive a copy before move-in

Without it: You’re in breach of criminal law, and may face fines or worse in the event of an incident.

✅ 3. Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)

- Mandatory for all rented homes

- Must be renewed every 5 years

- Must be issued to tenants at start of tenancy or upon request

Without it: You risk enforcement action, fines of up to £30,000, and invalidating your ability to regain possession.

✅ 4. How to Rent Guide (Latest Version)

- Must be the most up-to-date version

- Must be physically or digitally provided

- Even for renewals or rolling contracts, it should be re-issued if updated

Without it: Your Section 21 notice (if used) could be thrown out by the courts.

✅ 5. Deposit Protection Certificate & Prescribed Information

- Deposit must be protected within 30 days

- Scheme certificate and prescribed info must be given to tenant

Without it: You lose the right to serve Section 21, and could owe up to 3x the deposit in penalties.

🛡️ Bonus: Open Key Handles All This for You

Letting property in 2025 isn’t “passive income.” It’s paperwork, deadlines, and legal liability.

We handle all compliance documentation for you — correctly and on time — so you stay protected and profitable.

✅ Fully documented ASTs
✅ Mandatory certificates tracked
✅ Prescribed notices issued at the right time
✅ Digital copies held in case of dispute

Don’t leave your tenancy vulnerable. Get a professional setup from day one.

💬 Book Your Compliance Check

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📞 0151 701 0212