If you let a property in Shropshire, safety paperwork is a legal duty, not a nice-to-have. Missing or out-of-date certificates can lead to fines, invalid insurance and, most importantly, danger for your tenants. Since the Renters’ Rights Act reforms began coming in during 2026, being able to prove you’re compliant matters more than ever. Here’s a plain-English guide to what you need, how often, and what to give your tenants.
- Landlord gas safety certificate (every 12 months)
If the property has any gas appliance, such as a boiler, gas fire or hob, you need a landlord gas safety certificate (also called a CP12 or gas safety record).
- How often: every 12 months
- Who can do it: a Gas Safe registered engineer only
- What it covers: gas appliances, pipework and flues you’re responsible for
- Tenant copy: within 28 days of the check, or before a new tenant moves in
- Records: keep copies for at least two years
You can have the check done 10-12 months after the last one and keep your original renewal date, so there’s no need to leave it to the last minute.
- EICR (at least every five years)
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is an inspection of the fixed electrical wiring and consumer unit (fuse box).
- How often: at least every five years, or sooner if the inspector recommends it
- Who can do it: a qualified and competent person, such as a registered electrician
- Tenant copy: within 28 days of the inspection, and to any new tenant before they move in
- Council copy: within 7 days if the local authority asks for it
- If faults are found: urgent or potentially dangerous issues must be fixed within 28 days (or sooner if the report says so), with written confirmation sent to your tenant
PAT testing isn’t a legal requirement for landlords, but it’s good practice if you provide appliances.
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
Under the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations, as updated in October 2022:
- Smoke alarms: at least one on every storey with living accommodation
- CO alarms: in any room with a fixed combustion appliance, including gas boilers, oil boilers and wood or coal stoves (gas cookers are excluded)
- Testing: alarms must be confirmed working on the first day of each new tenancy
- Repairs: fix or replace any faulty alarm once it’s reported
Keep a signed record of your tests. Mains-wired, interconnected alarms are strongly recommended for better protection.
Other documents to have ready
- EPC: a valid Energy Performance Certificate, with a rating of E or above to let the property
- How to Rent guide and your tenancy paperwork: required before a tenancy starts
- Deposit protection: protect the deposit and give prescribed information within 30 days
- HMO or selective licence: check with the local council whether your property needs one
Quick reference
|
Certificate |
How often |
Give to tenant |
|
Gas safety (CP12) |
Every 12 months |
Within 28 days / before move-in |
|
EICR |
Every 5 years |
Within 28 days / before move-in |
|
Smoke & CO alarms |
Test at the start of each tenancy |
Confirm and record |
|
EPC |
Every 10 years |
Before the tenancy begins |
What happens if you don’t comply?
Local councils can issue civil penalties of up to £5,000 for alarm breaches and up to £30,000 for electrical safety breaches. Gas safety failures can bring unlimited fines and even criminal prosecution. Missing paperwork can also weaken your position if you need to regain possession, and insurers may refuse claims if your certificates are out of date.
Need help with landlord certificates in Shropshire?
Nick Tart Lettings arranges gas safety checks, EICRs and alarm installations for landlords across Shropshire, and we’ll remind you before anything expires so you never miss a deadline. Call 01952 432 732 for a quote.
This article is general guidance for landlords in England, not legal advice. Rules change, so check the latest GOV.UK guidance or speak to a qualified professional.
