Gas safety
Every rented property with a gas appliance needs a landlord gas safety certificate (CP12) issued by a Gas Safe registered engineer, renewed every 12 months. A copy must be given to the tenant within 28 days. See our annual gas safety check guide.
Electrical safety (EICR)
Most private rental properties need an EICR at least every 5 years. If the report is unsatisfactory (C1, C2 or FI), remedial work must be completed within the required timescale. See our EICR guide and EICR cost guide.
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
Smoke alarms must be fitted on every storey used as living accommodation, and a CO alarm in any room with a fixed combustion appliance (such as a gas boiler, fire or solid-fuel stove). Alarms must be tested and working on the first day of the tenancy.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
A valid EPC (rated E or above) is required before a property can be let. Government policy sets a direction towards Band C for new tenancies by 2030 — keep watching the timeline. Improvements like insulation, heating controls and low-energy lighting can lift a rating.
HMO licensing in Peterborough
A House in Multiple Occupation shared by 3 or more people from different households may need a licence. Peterborough City Council operates Additional HMO Licensing as well as the mandatory scheme, with conditions covering fire safety, room sizes and inspection intervals. Always confirm the current thresholds and conditions with the council. See our HMO checklist guide, or create a tailored action list and download a PDF with the free Peterborough HMO maintenance checklist generator.
Selective licensing in Peterborough
Selective licensing is separate from HMO licensing and applies only where a property falls within a designated area. Check the official Peterborough City Council scheme to establish the position for your address. If you need help with property records, Home Safe inspection findings or agreed remedial work, see our Selective Licensing Support in Peterborough service. We do not issue licences.
Deposit protection
Tenancy deposits must be protected in a government-approved scheme within 30 days of receipt, and the tenant given the prescribed information. Failing to protect a deposit has serious consequences — always protect promptly and keep the certificate.
Use the free Compliance Checker
Rather than read through every requirement, run our Landlord Compliance Checker. It asks a few questions about your property and flags which certificates are current, which are expiring, and which need action — then links you to the right service to book.
Reviewed on 3 October 2026 using GOV.UK guidance and Peterborough City Council information current on that date. This is general information, not legal advice.