Landlord Maintenance Checklist: What to Check Between Tenancies
Legal safety checks, a room-by-room inspection list and the small repairs that prevent big bills, so your rental is ready for the next tenant.
Most big repair bills in rental properties start as small problems that nobody fixed. A failed bath seal becomes a damaged ceiling. A dripping tap becomes a stained floor. This checklist helps landlords and letting agents inspect properly between tenancies, keep on top of legal requirements and turn properties round quickly.
The quick answer
- Keep gas, electrical, alarm and energy certificates up to date and on file
- Inspect room by room, with photos, at every change of tenant
- Fix seals, leaks and loose fittings early, before they cause damage
- Choose durable, easy-to-clean finishes to cut future turnaround costs
- Give the next tenant a clear way to report problems
Legal safety checks
Gas safety checks, electrical installation inspections and EPC assessments need the appropriate registered, qualified or accredited professionals. Routine visual inspections, alarm tests and minor non-regulated repairs are different tasks. These requirements apply to England; check current GOV.UK guidance and any additional local or property-specific duties.
| Requirement | Who does it | How often (England) |
| Gas safety record | Gas Safe registered engineer | Every 12 months |
| Electrical installation condition report | Qualified electrician | At least every 5 years |
| Smoke alarms | Landlord or contractor | On every storey, tested at start of tenancy |
| Carbon monoxide alarms | Landlord or contractor | Rooms with a fixed combustion appliance, excluding gas cookers |
| Energy performance certificate | Accredited assessor | Valid for 10 years |
HMOs and flats with shared areas have extra fire safety and management duties.
Room-by-room inspection
Entrance, hall and stairs
- Front door, locks, letterbox and door closer
- Handrails and banisters secure
- Flooring and stair carpet worn or loose
- Walls scuffed, which is common after moves
Kitchen
- Cupboard hinges, drawer runners and worktop edges
- Sealant around the sink and worktops
- Taps, waste and under-sink leaks
- Extractor fan working
Bathroom
- Silicone and grout around bath, shower and basin
- Taps, toilet flush and seat
- Extractor fan working, which is vital for preventing mould
- Signs of leaks on the ceiling below
Bedrooms and living areas
- Doors, handles and window restrictors
- Signs of condensation or mould, especially behind furniture
- Carpets, skirting and walls
Outside
- Gutters, downpipes, fences, gates and bin areas
Fix small things early
| Small problem | What it becomes if ignored |
| Failed bath or shower seal | Water damage to floor and ceiling below |
| Dripping tap or leaking trap | Rotten cupboard base and stained flooring |
| Broken extractor fan | Condensation and mould complaints |
| Loose stair carpet | Trip hazard and liability |
| Sticking doors or windows | Damage to frames and security issues |
Durable choices that save money
- Wipeable, durable paint in consistent colours, so touch-ups match
- LVT in kitchens and halls, and hard-wearing carpet elsewhere
- Good-quality sealant and extractor fans in bathrooms
- Keep a record of paint colours, flooring and fittings for each property
Our flooring guide and decorating guide explain the options.
Damp and mould
Damp and mould are among the most common rental complaints, and landlords are expected to act on them. Find the cause rather than painting over it. Our condensation, damp and mould guide explains how.
What to send for a turnaround quote
- Property postcode and how access will work
- Photos of each issue and a short job list
- The date the next tenant moves in
- For managed blocks, any purchase order or approved contractor requirements
Frequently asked questions
How often should I inspect my rental property?
At every change of tenant, plus periodic inspections during the tenancy, often every three to six months, with proper notice to the tenant.
Who is responsible for repairs?
Landlords are generally responsible for the structure, exterior, heating, hot water, sanitation and installations. Check your tenancy agreement and current GOV.UK guidance.
Can you handle a full turnaround?
Yes. Repairs, decorating, flooring and cleaning coordination between tenancies is a regular part of our work.
Official guidance and further reading
GOV.UK: landlord responsibilities in England
GOV.UK: electrical safety standards in rented housing
Related guides
- Painting and decorating guide
- Carpet, LVT or laminate?
- Commercial property maintenance
- End of tenancy checklist for tenants
- How to reseal a bath or shower
- Autumn home maintenance checklist
The Local Handyman London Ltd supports landlords, letting agents and managing agents across West London. Prefer to talk? Call 07444 262522.