What appliances does a landlord have to provide in the UK?

The majority of landlords provide white goods and appliances in their rental homes. It makes life easier for their tenants and makes their rental property an attractive place for a potential tenant to call home.

So, what appliances does a landlord have to provide in the UK? Let’s get into what you need to know about landlord responsibilities regarding appliances, including white goods and the importance of landlord contents insurance.

The basics

First off, it’s important to know that landlords in the UK aren’t legally obligated to provide any appliances when renting out their properties. But here’s the catch – most landlords do include a few key appliances to make their properties more appealing. The more they offer, the easier it is to attract tenants, which often means higher rent.

Common appliances

Even though there’s no law saying landlords have to provide appliances, there are a few that landlords commonly provide. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Oven and hob – most rental properties will have a built-in oven and hob
• Fridge/freezer – a fridge/freezer combo is pretty standard in rentals
• Washing machine – many landlords will include a washing machine, especially in flats where there aren’t any communal laundry facilities
• Dishwasher – not as common but can make your rental attractive to tenants
• Central heating – crucial in the UK, especially during the chilly winter months. Landlords are legally required to ensure that any heating system is safe and working properly
• Water heater – landlords usually provide a water heater or boiler
• Extractor fans – landlords typically install extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms to help reduce moisture and keep the air fresh.

Do landlords have to provide white goods?

Now, let’s talk about white goods. These are basically large household appliances like fridges, ovens, and washing machines. As a landlord, you aren’t legally required to provide white goods, but it’s a good idea to throw in a few if you can to make the property more attractive.

If you do provide white goods, you are then responsible for maintaining and fixing them – unless the tenancy agreement states otherwise.

Are landlords responsible for appliances?

Yes, in most cases, landlords are responsible for the upkeep of any white goods they provide. You should ensure that everything is in good working order at the start of the tenancy and keep an eye on them throughout your property inspections.

It’s a good idea to create a detailed inventory list with photographs that details all appliances and their conditions. This protects both you and your tenant in case there are any disputes surrounding appliances later down the line.

Ensure that you clarify in your tenancy agreement which appliances in the property you have provided and therefore which are your responsibility to maintain. Also outline how repairs will be handled; how long it will take to get something fixed and the process that your tenant should follow for reporting issues.

The importance of landlord contents insurance

While it’s not a legal must-have, landlord contents insurance is highly recommended. This insurance covers any belongings that you have provided in the rental property, including appliances and furniture.

Here’s why it matters:

• Protection against damage – if an appliance gets damaged due to something unexpected – like a fire or flooding – contents insurance can help cover the costs for repairs or replacements.
• Liability coverage – many policies include liability coverage. This protects landlords from claims if a tenant has an accident related to the landlord’s property or appliances.
• Peace of mind – having this insurance gives landlords peace of mind, knowing they are covered against potential losses due to damage or theft.
• Tenant confidence – taking out contents insurance shows that you are serious about maintaining the property, which can make tenants feel more secure in their living arrangements.

While landlords aren’t legally required to provide appliances in the UK, many choose to include some essentials to attract tenants. Those essentials are worth protecting.

For a landlord contents insurance quote, turn to us at CIA Landlords. Get a quote online today or request a callback. Alternatively, you can contact us via our website or give us a call on 01788 818 670.