Avoid Fines: The HMO Compliance Checklist Every Landlord Needs

HMO compliance checklist

Let’s be honest — managing an HMO isn’t always straightforward. Between keeping tenants happy, chasing contractors, and staying on top of paperwork, compliance checks can easily be forgotten.

But missing just one thing — like a faulty fire door or an expired gas safety certificate — can lead to serious fines, or worse, a revoked licence.

Common Reasons Landlords Get Fined

You’d be surprised how many landlords get caught out by small things. These are the usual culprits:

• Fire doors not closing properly

• Gas or electrical certificates out of date

• No records of fire alarm testing

• Overcrowded rooms or poor property conditions

• Missing documents on the noticeboard

And it usually unintentional, rather than a case of a rouge landlord. It’s usually just because there is no clear system in place.

That’s why here at Circle Doors, we have put together an HMO Compliance Kit — so you can stay organised, cover your legal responsibilities, and protect your property (and your pocket) without becoming overwhelmed.

What You Should Be Checking (Regularly)

If you're managing your HMO yourself or even with help from an agent, here are some of the key checks you need to stay on top of:

Weekly / Monthly Tasks:

• Test and log fire alarms

• Check emergency lighting

• Make sure fire doors close properly

• Inspect communal areas (clean, clear, safe)

• Keep your tenant noticeboard up to date

Quarterly / Annually:

• PAT testing and electrical safety checks (EICR)

• Gas safety certificates

• Water checks for Legionella

• General property inspections (check for repairs, pests, etc.)

Key Docs to Keep on File:

• HMO licence and floor plan

• Fire risk assessment

• Maintenance records

• Tenancy agreements

• Copies of safety certs

Need a Hand Staying on Top of It All?

I get it — you’re busy. That’s why we created a simple, editable HMO Compliance Kit that covers all the key areas and saves you time.

It includes:✔️ Weekly, monthly, and annual checks✔️ A clean, easy-to-follow layout✔️ Space to tick things off and keep track✔️ Editable format (Word & Google Docs)

👉 Grab your copy here on Etsy

Whether you’ve got one HMO or a whole portfolio, this checklist helps you stay organised, avoid fines, and keep your paperwork tight.

🧠 Pro Tip

Print a copy and keep it in your property folder — but also save one in Google Drive or Notion. If your local authority ever wants to see proof of inspections or maintenance, you’ll be ready.

Final Thought

Being compliant doesn’t have to be stressful — not when you’ve got the right tools in place. A checklist might seem small, but it could be the thing that saves you thousands in the long run.

👉 Grab your copy here on Etsy