With 2026 almost upon us, landlords have much to do. The Renters’ Rights Act implementation will begin in earnest from May 1, so getting your house in order now will at least mean one thing off your checklist of things to do.

Check your property is winter-ready with an end-of-year inspection
An end-of-year inspection will identify issues that may need urgent attention, as well as those that you’ll need to address in the new year. Servicing heating and checking for damp should be a particular priority to ensure that your tenants stay warm and healthy over the winter months. It should also prevent last-minute emergency callouts.

You should also check how the property is standing up to the ravages of the weather. Are there any leaks already evident, or in danger of developing? Are gutters running freely, or are they blocked with autumn leaves? If blocked, then standing water could freeze and cause damage. Are roof tiles securely in place, or have they come loose in the recent high winds?

Plan for upgrades
You can also use the inspection to identify improvements to your property – particularly with regards to energy efficiency. Quick fix measures such as a new, energy-efficient tumble dryer, for example, could bring a little extra Christmas cheer to your tenants. Longer-term you might consider upgrading insulation or double-glazing.

Check compliance is up to date
You have several legal obligations to ensure the safety of your rental property and now is a good time to check you’re still compliant. These include your Gas Safety Certificate, which should be renewed annually, the regular testing of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and the validity of your Electrical Installation Condition Report and Energy Performance Certificate. If you don’t have renewal reminders, then set them up now.

Review record-keeping
Accurate record-keeping will become more important with the advent of the Renters’ Rights Act, so the end of the year is a good opportunity to review what you are doing. Do you need to upgrade processes or introduce new software to manage your record-keeping to prove compliance?

You may also need to reassess your accounting procedures since landlords with an income of £50,000 or more will need to use the Government’s new Making Tax Digital system from April 2026.

Review pricing
From May 1, rent increases will be subject to additional controls, with practices such as rental bidding prohibited. Setting a fair market price will be essential. Rents should be in line with the local market so now could be a good time to review your pricing before your next rental increase.

Update insurance policies
If you don’t already have landlord insurance, then you may want to consider it. After May 1, tenants will have more time to pay rental arrears before eviction – which means you could end up out of pocket for longer. As landlords face an increased possibility of litigation under the Renters’ Rights Act then legal expenses cover could also be useful.

Check your tenants are happy
Once the Renters’ Rights Act comes into force, tenancies will become periodic and tenants will need to give you only two months’ notice that they are leaving. A friendly note or conversation that asks if there’s anything they need could do wonders for landlord/tenant relations, especially if accompanied by festive warm wishes.