Self-managing a rental home can feel seamless when you know your property and your tenants well, and your paperwork is in order. Many landlords handle tasks as they arise, keep essential paperwork together and manage their tenancy with a hands-on, practical approach.
From 27 December 2025, that familiar routine will need a closer look.
This is when the next phase of the Renters’ Rights Act comes into force, giving local councils the authority to check whether landlords have met their legal obligations over the previous 12 months. The focus is shifting toward clearer documentation, reliable records and evidence that can be produced quickly when requested.
Country Properties is here to help landlords prepare calmly and confidently before the new expectations begin.
What information local councils may request under the new rules
From 27 December 2025, local councils can request key compliance documents linked to any tenancy you have been involved with in the previous 12 months. These may include:
• Tenancy agreements
• Deposit protection certificates and prescribed information
• Right to Rent check records
• Gas safety certificates
• Electrical installation condition reports (EICRs)
• EPCs
• Repair and maintenance history
• Legal notices
• Any required licensing documentation
If every item is well organised and up to date, responding is straightforward. If papers or digital files are scattered across emails, devices or folders, it becomes much harder to provide what is needed.
Why these changes matter for landlords who self-manage
Looking after a rental property yourself means overseeing every compliance requirement personally. Under the new rules, this includes being able to show a clear, well-kept record of how your responsibilities have been met.
If documentation is missing, incomplete or difficult to access quickly, local councils may need to follow up with additional queries. The updated rules place stronger emphasis on consistent, accurate, and easily retrievable record-keeping.
Why December is the best time to get organised
December is rarely quiet in the property world. Seasonal repairs, tenant requests, renewals and holiday closures all demand attention. It is also the time when admin tasks are most likely to be postponed until the new year.
This year, postponing could create complications. Because the new powers begin before January, any overdue or incomplete documentation may already be flagged when councils begin checking records.
Taking action now helps ensure a smoother transition when the rules take effect.
How Country Properties’ fully managed service helps landlords stay protected
Country Properties has supported landlords with thoughtful, reliable and well-structured property management. As compliance becomes more detailed, our fully managed service provides reassurance that the essentials are being handled correctly and consistently.
With Country Properties managing your tenancy, you receive:
• Fully organised and securely stored documentation
• Proactive monitoring of renewal dates and safety requirements
• Clear evidence trails for safety checks, repairs and certificates
• Support with any council information requests
• Ongoing guidance as legislation evolves
It reduces the risk of missing important details and helps keep your tenancy fully compliant throughout the year.
Steps to take before the new rules take effect
The changes arriving on 27 December 2025 represent a significant step in how landlords must demonstrate their compliance responsibilities. Preparing now means you avoid pressure later and head into the new year with everything in good order.
Speak to your local Country Properties branch to ensure you have the right systems, support and documentation in place before the next phase of the Renters’ Rights Act begins.
