For landlords in Doncaster, 2025 brings fresh changes and renewed focus on compliance.
With increased local enforcement and national regulations tightening, even experienced landlords can feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve created this practical checklist to help you stay compliant, protect your investment and keep your tenants safe.
Belvoir Doncaster Director Chris Duffy says: “Keeping on top of compliance doesn’t just help avoid fines – it builds trust with tenants and makes managing property far less stressful. It’s the foundation of a successful letting experience.”
Here’s what you need to know for 2025.
Gas and electrical safety
- Annual gas safety checks are still a legal requirement. You must provide a valid certificate to your tenants before they move in and renew it every 12 months.
- Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) must be carried out every 5 years by a qualified electrician. When is yours due to run out? If you haven’t done one recently, now’s the time to check that it has not expired.
Tip: Keep digital copies of certificates for easy access.
Energy efficiency standards
There is growing pressure on landlords to improve energy performance. While the government has delayed enforcing new minimum EPC standards (E to C), tenants and lenders are increasingly focused on energy efficiency.
- Make sure your property has an EPC rating of E or above to legally let it.
- Consider upgrading insulation, boilers or windows to improve your score ahead of future rule changes.
Tip: Investigate if grants are available to improve the EPC rating.
Right to rent checks
Before any tenancy begins, landlords in England must verify that a tenant has the right to rent in the UK.
- Check original identification (passport, visa etc.) in person or via a certified digital route
- Keep a dated copy of the documents for your records
Failing to carry out proper checks can result in fines of up to £3,000 per tenant.
Deposit protection
All deposits must be protected in a government-approved scheme (DPS, MyDeposits, or TDS) within 30 days of receipt.
- Provide tenants with the Prescribed Information within the same timeframe
- Confirm the deposit scheme’s contact details, dispute process, and how the deposit is protected
Missing this deadline could invalidate your ability to serve notice later.
Licensing rules
Some Doncaster properties may require a licence. You should check if your rental falls under:
- Mandatory HMO licensing (5+ occupants from 2+ households)
- Additional or selective licensing in certain areas (check with Doncaster Council)
Fines for unlicensed lettings can exceed £30,000, and tenants may be entitled to claim back rent.
Fire and carbon monoxide safety
Recent legislation changes mean stricter requirements for smoke and CO alarms:
- Smoke alarms must be fitted on every floor with living accommodation
- Carbon monoxide alarms must be installed and maintained in any room used as living accommodation that contains a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers). This includes rooms with gas boilers, wood-burning stoves, or open fires.
- All alarms must be tested and working at the start of each tenancy.
Tenancy agreements and paperwork
Even for single lets, having a clear, updated Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) is vital.
- Include clauses on rent due dates, responsibilities, notice periods and allowable access
- Issue the latest How to Rent guide from GOV.UK to all new tenants
- Provide your contact details and emergency information in writing
Serving notice
Section 21 and Section 8 rules have been under review. For now, ensure you:
- Serve notice using the correct form (Form 6A for Section 21)
- Provide all required documentation before tenancy starts (EPC, Gas Safety, EICR, How to Rent Guide, deposit info) or risk invalidating the notice
Changes may come into effect under the Renters (Reform) Bill – stay informed with help from local experts. Belvoir Doncaster are happy to give free advice.
Keep records and work with professionals
Being a compliant landlord means keeping paperwork organised and up to date. Digital tools or a letting agent can help manage:
- Tenancy documents
- Maintenance logs
- Safety certificates
- Rent receipts
Chris Duffy adds: “The landlords we work with who stay proactive are not only legally protected – they’re also better placed to grow their portfolios with confidence.”
Final thoughts: Protect your investment
With new changes on the horizon and ongoing responsibilities to meet, staying compliant is an essential part of being a landlord in Doncaster.
If you’re unsure whether your property ticks every legal box, or you’re simply tired of juggling admin, the Belvoir Doncaster team can help.
Need expert guidance?Book a free landlord consultation or contact us for tailored advice.
We’re here to make compliance simpler and protect your property every step of the way.
