Skip to content 
A ceiling fire alarm. Photo for illustration. Photo from Pexels.
Landlord requirements in Swindon follow national rules for England. You need an annual gas safety check, an electrical inspection at least every five years, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and an EPC of at least E. You must also protect deposits, check right to rent and license larger HMOs.
This is a general guide, not legal adviceRules change. Check GOV.UK and Swindon Borough Council for the latest requirements, and take professional advice for your situation.
Jump to
What safety checks must a Swindon landlord carry out?
A Swindon landlord must carry out an annual gas safety check, inspect the electrics at least every five years and fit the right alarms.
| Requirement | How often | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Gas safety check by a Gas Safe engineer | Every year | Give tenants the record before they move in, or within 28 days of the check |
| Electrical installation condition report (EICR) | At least every 5 years | Give tenants a copy and fix any issues found |
| Smoke alarms | At the start of each tenancy, then keep working | At least one on every storey used as living space |
| Carbon monoxide alarms | At the start of each tenancy, then keep working | In rooms with a fixed combustion appliance, except gas cookers |
| Energy performance certificate | Valid for 10 years | Minimum rating of E to let |
See GOV.UK landlord safety responsibilities for full details.
What are the rules on deposits and right to rent?
You must protect a tenant’s deposit in a government-approved scheme within 30 days and give the prescribed information. Before a tenancy starts, you must check every adult occupant’s right to rent in England.
- Deposits are capped at five weeks’ rent for most tenancies
- Holding deposits are capped at one week’s rent
- Since 1 May 2026, no more than one month’s rent can be taken in advance
- Right to rent checks must be done before the tenancy starts
Keep signed records of every check. Photo for illustration. Photo from Pexels.
What does the Renters’ Rights Act mean for Swindon landlords?
The Renters’ Rights Act means most tenancies since 1 May 2026 are periodic, and possession needs a legal reason under section 8. Rent can only be increased once a year, on the proper form with two months’ notice.
0 of 5 checked
The NRLA reports that the landlord database opens from 15 December 2026, region by region.
When do you need an HMO licence in Swindon?
You need an HMO licence from Swindon Borough Council if you let a property to five or more people who form more than one household. Renting out an unlicensed HMO can lead to an unlimited fine.
Smaller shared houses still have extra safety duties, even if they do not need a licence. Check the Swindon HMO licence page on GOV.UK before you let to sharers.
Tips for staying compliant in Swindon
Keep a compliance calendarDiary the gas check, EICR, EPC expiry and deposit deadlines for every property.
Keep copies of everythingStore certificates, notices and right to rent checks where you can find them quickly.
Consider a company letUnder a company lease, such as our guaranteed rent model, the operating company manages day-to-day compliance with guests. Your safety duties as owner still need agreeing in the lease.
Is there a more hands-off way to let in Swindon?
If managing every requirement yourself is too much, a managed option such as a letting agent or guaranteed rent can help. Esho Stays takes on suitable homes under a company lease and manages them as serviced accommodation.
Read about guaranteed rent in Swindon, or see our property owners and landlords page.
Frequently asked questions
How often do landlords need an electrical safety check?
In England, landlords must have the electrical installation inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years, and give tenants a copy of the report. Any urgent issues found must be fixed within the required timescale, usually 28 days or sooner if stated.
What is the minimum EPC rating to rent out a property?
A private rented property in England must normally have an EPC rating of at least E, unless a valid exemption is registered. Stricter targets have been proposed for future years, so check the latest government guidance before buying or improving a property to let.
Do I need to register as a landlord in Swindon?
England is introducing a national private rented sector database under the Renters’ Rights Act. The NRLA reports that registration opens from 15 December 2026, region by region, with deadlines in 2027. Check GOV.UK for the date that applies to properties in Swindon.
Do I need landlord insurance in Swindon?
Landlord insurance is not a legal requirement, but most mortgage lenders require buildings cover, and standard home insurance does not usually cover letting. Landlord policies can also cover liability, loss of rent and contents you provide. Tell your insurer if you use a company let or serviced accommodation.
Next step
Want a hands-off way to let in Swindon?
Tell us about your property, and we will explain how our guaranteed rent model works and whether it suits your home.
