Blog > Statutory Testing – What Is Required When I Re-Let My Vacant Property
Statutory Testing – What Is Required When I Re-Let My Vacant Property
Written by Paul DelanyPublished: 21st July 2025Last update: 6th October 2026
Statutory testing, often referred to as Landlord Safety Checks, involves carrying out regulated inspections to confirm that a rental property is safe and compliant before tenants move in. These tests cover key systems such as gas, electricity and water, and must be performed by qualified professionals in accordance with legal and industry standards.
If you’re preparing to re-let a vacant property, completing all necessary tests during the void period is not only more practical but also helps prevent legal or safety issues later on.
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Key takeaways
Electrical, gas, fire and water safety testing must be current before a property is re-let.
Carrying out testing during the void avoids access problems and delays at handover.
Certificates and records should be retained, since they are required evidence for compliance and for insurers.
Which Tests Are Required?
The exact testing required depends on the type of property, its usage, and when the last inspection was carried out. However, the most common statutory tests include:
Gas Safety Check (CP12)A legal requirement for all rented properties with gas appliances. A GasSafe-registered engineer must inspect boilers, cookers, and pipework annually. You must provide a copy of the certificate to new tenants before they move in.
Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)Landlords must ensure that a valid EICR is in place at the start of every new tenancy or at least every five years. This test checks for damage, wear, or unsafe wiring across the fixed electrical system.
Legionella Risk AssessmentLandlords are responsible for assessing the risk of Legionella bacteria in water systems, especially in properties that have been empty for a period of time. While there is no legal requirement for routine testing in most cases, a risk assessment should be documented and updated if conditions change.
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)While not legally mandatory, PAT testing is strongly advised if you provide any electrical appliances. It ensures items like kettles, toasters or lamps are safe to use and can protect both tenants and your legal liability.
Why Carry Out Testing During the Void?
The void period is the ideal time to complete statutory testing. With no tenants in the property, professionals have full access to carry out thorough inspections without disruption. It also allows time to make any necessary repairs or upgrades before handing the property over to new occupants.
By ensuring all certificates are up to date and hazards are addressed in advance, you demonstrate good practice, reduce risk and meet your legal obligations as a landlord.
The void period is the only time you can carry out testing without working around a tenant. Leaving it until the week before handover is how re-lets get delayed, and the certificates are usually what holds everything up.
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FAQs
Do I need to redo all tests before every new tenancy?
Not necessarily. Gas safety checks are annual, while EICRs are valid for five years. However, it’s essential to check the expiry dates and ensure certificates are valid before a new tenant moves in.
Who is responsible for arranging statutory testing in HMOs?
The landlord or managing agent is responsible for ensuring all legal safety checks are completed and documented.
How do I prove compliance?
Keep clear records of all certificates and inspection reports. Copies of GasSafe and EICR certificates should be given to tenants and may be requested by local authorities or insurers.
What happens if I fail to complete statutory testing?
You may face enforcement action, fines, or invalid insurance if a tenant is harmed due to non-compliance. In serious cases, it could lead to prosecution.
If you’re preparing to re-let a vacant property and want to make sure everything is in place, Clearway can help. From vacant property security to access facilitation and safety compliance support, we’ll help you get everything ready — safely, efficiently and in line with regulations. Contact us today to schedule a site survey.
Paul Delany is a Senior Client Director at Clearway, bringing over 30 years of experience as a qualified surveyor managing commercial property portfolios. With a strong focus on compliance and risk management, Paul specialises in helping clients protect people, property, and assets across both vacant and occupied sites.
He works closely with clients across the UK and Europe to deliver tailored security solutions, combining practical expertise with the latest security technologies. His approach includes designing cost-effective security packages supported by NSI Gold-accredited monitoring and national inspection teams, ensuring consistent and reliable service delivery.
Paul is known for providing clear, practical advice to surveyors and property professionals, helping them understand their responsibilities and implement robust security measures that safeguard both occupants and long-term portfolio investments.
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