What Risk Assessments Do I Need as a UK Landlord in 2026?
Author
Ian Murray
Date Published
Landlords are responsible for managing risks to tenants, visitors, and contractors. In 2026, enforcement bodies expect landlords to understand exactly which risk assessments are legally required, and which are considered best practice depending on the type of property.
Many landlords assume that residential property is exempt from formal risk assessments. That misunderstanding continues to cause enforcement action, fines, and failed inspections.
Landlord compliance is not about collecting certificates. It is about proportionate, documented risk management.
The Landlord’s Legal Duty Explained
UK landlords have a legal duty of care under housing, health and safety, and fire safety legislation. This duty applies wherever a landlord has control over part of a property.
A common mistake is assuming that residential buildings are excluded from risk assessment duties. They are not. While the rules differ from commercial premises, landlords still have clear legal responsibilities.
If you control communal areas, shared systems, or contractor access, risk assessments apply.
Fire Risk Assessments for Landlords
A Fire Risk Assessment is legally required wherever the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order applies.
For landlords, this usually includes:
- Communal areas in blocks of flats
- HMOs
- Mixed-use buildings with residential and commercial space
Communal areas such as stairwells, corridors, entrances, plant rooms, and bin stores must be covered by a suitable and sufficient Fire Risk Assessment.
Individual flats are generally not legally required to have a Fire Risk Assessment, unless specifically stated in the tenancy or lease. However, landlords remain responsible for the safety of the structure and shared systems.
Learn more
Legionella Risk Assessments
Landlords have a legal duty to assess the risk of Legionella in their properties.
Even low-risk domestic water systems must be assessed. A “low risk” rating does not remove the requirement to carry out a Legionella Risk Assessment. It simply affects how detailed it needs to be.
Assessments should be reviewed regularly and whenever there are trigger events such as changes to the water system, long periods of vacancy, or a change in occupancy.
Routine water sampling is not always required, but a documented risk assessment is.
Learn more
Health and Safety Risk Assessments
Health and safety risk assessments apply where landlords have responsibility for communal areas or manage contractors.
This includes:
- Shared spaces such as car parks, gardens, and access routes
- Maintenance and repair work
- Contractor management and supervision
If you instruct contractors, you are expected to manage the risks associated with their work. Inspectors will look for evidence that hazards have been identified and controls are in place.
Learn more
Disability Access Considerations
Disability Access Risk Assessments apply where there is public access or shared use of a building.
Purely private residential properties are usually exempt. However, HMOs, supported accommodation, and mixed-use buildings often require consideration of accessibility risks.
Best practice for landlords is to assess access in communal areas, especially where visitors, service users, or the public may attend the site.
This also supports compliance with equality legislation and local authority expectations.
Learn more
Landlord Compliance Myths in 2026
Many landlords still rely on outdated assumptions. We hear them daily! Here are a few of the most common…
“I only need certificates.”
Certificates alone do not demonstrate risk management. Inspectors expect risk assessments that explain hazards and controls.
“It’s the tenant’s responsibility.”
Tenants are responsible for their own behaviour. Landlords remain responsible for areas and systems under their control.
“My managing agent covers it.”
Managing agents can help, but legal responsibility usually remains with the landlord unless formally transferred.
A Practical Approach to Landlord Risk Assessment Certification
Landlord compliance is not about ticking boxes. It is about having the right assessments in place, reviewed regularly, and aligned with the property you manage.
At The HSRA, we provide fixed-price landlord risk assessment services, including Fire Risk Assessments, Legionella Risk Assessments, health and safety reviews, and compliance support.
Our assessments provide clear documentation, practical advice, and the certification landlords need to demonstrate compliance with confidence.
Discounts for Multi-Site Businesses
Managing multiple locations? We offer exclusive discounts for businesses needing assessments across multiple sites. We aim to beat your current provider’s pricing—request your free quote today.
FAQs – Landlord Risk Assessments in 2026
What risk assessments are legally required for landlords?
Most landlords require a Fire Risk Assessment for communal areas and a Legionella Risk Assessment for water systems. Health and safety assessments apply where landlords manage shared spaces or contractors.
Do landlords need a Fire Risk Assessment for individual flats?
Generally no. Fire Risk Assessments apply to communal areas, not the inside of individual flats, unless stated in the tenancy agreement.
Is a Legionella Risk Assessment mandatory for landlords?
Yes. Landlords must assess the risk of Legionella, even in low-risk domestic properties.
What is landlord risk assessment certification?
It is documented evidence that suitable and sufficient risk assessments have been completed and reviewed in line with legal duties.
Can a managing agent be responsible for risk assessments?
Managing agents may carry out assessments, but legal responsibility usually remains with the landlord unless formally transferred.
How often should landlord risk assessments be reviewed?
Typically every 12 months, or sooner if there are changes to the property, systems, or occupancy.
How can The HSRA help landlords?
The HSRA provides fixed-price landlord risk assessments, clear certification, and practical guidance to help landlords stay compliant in 2026.