UK Landlord Forum / Life

Hi, just checking through :

1) My flat does not use gas. It only uses electricity. It does not have central heating. It is a small studio flat. The only heating I have is an electrical heater that I bought for my tenant that is plugged onto the wall (portable). Is this ok ? Or do I require to have a fitted heating in my flat for the tenant ? My estate agent says not to worry about it, but I just want to ensure I comply to all regulations.

2) The switch of my oven and also fridge freezer is behind the oven, thus my tenants do not have access to them unless the oven is taken out ? For the fridge freezer, the plug is connected to a portable switches set that is then connected to the switch behind the oven. Is this ok ?

3) My flat uses only electricity. I was informed that a heat and fire alarm will be sufficient for my working, and carbon monoxide alarm is not necessary. Is this correct ?

Sorry about all the questions that may seem to be too small to worry about. Being a new landlord, I would just like to ensure I am doing it rightly.

Thank you in advance for all the answers and advices.

You don't need a carbon monoxide alarm when there is no gas or solid fuel appliances.

I would move the oven and fridge freezer switches for merely practical purposes, rather than meeting obligations.

I am unaware of any regulations surrounding what heating must be present in a let property... there must be plenty of let properties without central heating you would think.

Thank you, Hippogriff, for your very prompt reply. Very much appreciate it.

I am currently getting quotes from electrician on moving the switches - you are right - it is more practical, that way.

As for the heating, does it also mean portable heater will be sufficient ?

I have some studios in the same block.They were built  in the 80's and all had electric bar type heaters built into the wall.These have been removed over the years,and I provide a convector in each flat.The flats are well insulated, and this seems efficient and convenient for the tenants to move around as required.You do not legally have to get electric safety checks in the same way as gas,but it can be a good idea in case problems arise,it shows good intent.If a tenant requires further heaters, I tell them that is up to them to buy,I am not then responsible for repairs.

Thank you, Heavykarma for your thoughts. Much appreciate them.

I have done an EICR last month after my tenant move out. Its just that when I visited my flat, I thought - it will be good to have the switches moved. I have just checked on cost and it is £400 !!

As for the heater, I am planning to get an oil free radiator (portable) for the tenant. I do hope this will suit them.

Hi, I have mentioned that my flat works with electricity only. No gas. I thus do not need carbon monoxide alarm. What if my tenant brings in appliances, etc that releases carbon monoxide ? How do I add this concern in my tenancy agreement to ensure all are ok on this regard for me ? I mean, how should the clause sound in a tenancy agreement ?

Is gas laid on in the property to begin with? Even if it is,the tenant would be highly unlikely to pay to have a gas cooker or fire fitted,especially in a studio flat.Such tenants are not looking to create a home for the future.Carbon monoxide can only come from burning gas, or coal /solid fuel fires.I have never had a tenant in any of my properties,flats or otherwise,add such appliances.I'm not even sure it would be legal for a gas fitter to carry out such work without consent from the owner.You are scaring yourself needlessly on this score.

your tenant  could bring in a bottled gas heater or other portable heater   
so just ban there use  in your contract  job done
if you are that worried

Even if they tenant did bring in a portable gas appliance, I don't know if the landlord is responsible for it. Since it was not provided by the landlord.
However, If the tenants would certainly have known about the heating arrangements before agreeing to take the tenancy.

Regardless, a carbon monoxide alarm costs about £10. I wouldn't argue over such a small expense.