2026 represents a watershed moment for private landlords in England. A combination of long-trailed legislative changes and new compliance requirements are coming into effect simultaneously, creating one of the most demanding regulatory environments the sector has faced. This guide summarises the key obligations Manchester landlords must meet — and the consequences of failing to do so.

1. Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) — Grade C requirement

The government's Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) require all newly let properties to hold an EPC rating of C or above from 2026. From 2028, this requirement extends to all existing tenancies.

Approximately one third of Manchester's private rental properties currently sit below a C rating. If your property has a D, E, F or G rating and you are letting or re-letting, you are now required to upgrade before issuing a new tenancy — or register a valid exemption (e.g. where the cost of works exceeds the £10,000 cap).

Common improvements to reach a C include: loft and cavity wall insulation, modern condensing boiler, double glazing and LED lighting. Our property management team can arrange an EPC assessment and put you in touch with approved contractors.

2. The Renters' Rights Bill — End of Section 21 'No-Fault' Eviction

The Renters' Rights Bill, passed in early 2025, has fundamentally changed the tenancy landscape. Section 21 'no-fault' evictions are now abolished. Landlords can only recover possession through Section 8 grounds — which have been expanded to include situations such as the landlord wishing to sell or move into the property, but these must be evidenced and pursued through court.

All tenancies have also moved to periodic tenancy by default — there are no more fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies. Tenants can leave at any time with two months' notice; landlords must use Section 8 grounds and serve the appropriate notice periods.

Landlords must ensure their tenancy agreements, notice procedures and management practices are updated to reflect the new regime. Failure to serve correct notices is a common cause of possession delays.

3. Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR)

All private rented properties in England must have a valid EICR carried out by a qualified electrician at least every five years, with a copy provided to tenants. New tenants must receive a copy before or on move-in. Properties that fail inspection must have remedial work completed within 28 days.

Delisa Miller arrange EICR inspections as part of our property management service.

4. Gas Safety Certificates

Gas Safety Certificates (CP12) must be renewed annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Tenants must receive a copy before moving in and within 28 days of the annual renewal. Failure to maintain a valid gas safety certificate is a criminal offence.

5. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Smoke alarms are required on every floor of a rented property and must be tested at the start of each new tenancy. Carbon monoxide alarms are now required in every room where a fixed combustion appliance is present (including gas boilers, not just solid fuel appliances, following the 2022 amendments).

6. HMO Licensing — Manchester Additional Licensing Scheme

Manchester City Council operates an Additional HMO Licensing Scheme covering all properties occupied by three or more unrelated people sharing facilities — not just the traditional 'large HMO' threshold. Licensing is required, must be renewed periodically, and carries conditions relating to room sizes, fire safety measures and property management standards.

Operating an unlicensed HMO can result in a fine of up to £30,000 and a rent repayment order requiring you to return up to 12 months' rent to tenants.

7. Deposit Protection

All deposits must be protected in a government-approved scheme (DPS, TDS or mydeposits) within 30 days of receipt, and the prescribed information must be served on tenants. Failure to protect a deposit can result in a penalty of 1–3 times the deposit amount and prevents the landlord from serving a valid Section 21 notice (under the transitional provisions of the Renters' Rights Act).

What to do next

If you are uncertain about any of your compliance obligations, Delisa Miller's property management team can conduct a full compliance review of your property. We arrange all safety certificates, manage your EPC assessment and upgrade pathway, handle HMO licensing applications and ensure your tenancy agreements are fully up to date.

Landlord Legal Obligations 2026: What Every Manchester Landlord Must Know