Fitness for Human Habitation — landlord obligations in England
The law requires that the property is fit for human habitation at the start of the tenancy and remains so throughout. If a hazard arises, you must act from the date you become aware of it. This applies for most leases under 7 years granted on or after 20 March 2019. You need to address any issues that make the property unfit, such as damp or lack of heating.
The law that creates this obligation
Your obligations as a landlord
- Who this applies to: All landlords under leases to which sections 8 and 9A of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 apply, including most tenancies under 7 years granted on or after 20 March 2019.
- When it applies: At the start of the tenancy and continuously throughout. You must act when you become aware of a hazard.
- What you must do: Keep records of inspections and maintenance to show the property is fit.
What good evidence looks like
Your compliance file should contain
- Written record or document confirming this obligation has been met
- Date of compliance — email timestamp, signed receipt, or platform log
- FastPass available: Self-attestation is sufficient as the law does not require specific documentary evidence.
Upload or log inspection and maintenance records to show steps taken to keep the property fit.
Record this obligation in your LettingsLedger workspace
Upload evidence, set reminders, and build a timestamped compliance record — all in one place.
Consequences of non-compliance
A tenant can take you to civil court for an injunction and/or damages.
Further reading for landlords
LettingsLedger is a compliance evidence governance platform. It is not a legal services provider and does not provide legal advice. Content is derived from UK primary legislation at legislation.gov.uk and official GOV.UK sources. Reflects the position as at June 2026. A GovProtocol product by Pertheo Limited.