Landlords: Your Essential December Checklist Before the New Year Begins

December is a busy month for landlords. As the year wraps up and winter settles in, this is the perfect moment to ensure your properties, paperwork and plans are in order. Especially with major legal changes coming in 2026.

Whether you self-manage or work with a letting agent, preparing now will protect your properties, support your tenants and reduce headaches in the New Year.

This December checklist will help you stay compliant, safe and ready for what’s ahead.

1. Check the Heating and Boiler

Winter is the worst time for heating issues. A preventative check can save you:

• emergency repair costs
  

• tenant complaints
  

• property damage from damp or freezing pipes

Arrange a boiler service if it hasn’t been done this year, check radiator efficiency and ensure tenants know how the system operates.

2. Inspect for Damp and Mould

Cold weather brings moisture. Use December to check for:

• condensation build-up
  

• mould patches
  

• leaks around windows
  

• roof issues
  

Responding early prevents long-term structural issues and keeps tenants safe.

3. Review Your Legal Compliance

With stronger enforcement starting December 2025, now is the time to ensure:

• Gas Safety Certificate is up to date
  

• EICR has been completed within required timeframe
  

• EPC rating meets minimum standards
  

• Smoke and CO alarms are installed and tested
  

Compliance lapses could result in much higher penalties next year.

4. Communicate With Your Tenants

A simple seasonal check-in can:

• prevent issues
  

• improve relationships
  

• encourage timely reporting of problems
  

Send a friendly message reminding tenants how to report repairs, what to do in emergency situations, and your office closures over the holidays.

5. Review Rent Payments and Arrears

Before the New Year:

• check outstanding rent
  

• follow up on arrears with compassion and clarity
  

• ensure payment schedules are documented
  

With the Renters’ Rights Act strengthening tenant protections, having clear communication and accurate records is essential.

6. Prepare for Legislative Changes in 2026

The big one. From May 2026:

• Section 21 ends
  

• all tenancies become periodic
  

• rent increases become annual only
  

• upfront rent is capped
  

• discrimination rules tighten
  

• enforcement increases
  

December is a great time to review:

• tenancy agreements
  

• rent strategies
  

• advertising practices
  

• property documentation
  

Being proactive keeps you ahead of the curve.

7. Review Your Insurance Policies

Check that your landlord insurance covers:

• winter damage
  

• boiler issues
  

• tenant-related incidents
  

• legal protection
  

Look at excess amounts, renewal dates and whether you’re covered for emergency callouts.

8. Plan Your 2026 Property Budget

Consider:

• improvements
  

• upgrades
  

• maintenance priorities
  

• potential void periods
  

• rent adjustments
  

A clear plan now reduces stress later.

9. Audit Your Property Portfolio

Ask yourself:

• Is every property performing well?
  

• Do any need refurbishments?
  

• Are any becoming liabilities?
  

• Should you consider selling under the new legislation?
  

December is a perfect time for strategic thinking.

10. Consider Professional Property Management

If 2025 has felt overwhelming, you’re not alone. With the Renters’ Rights Act coming, many self-managing landlords are now turning to professional management for:

• compliance support
  

• tenant communication
  

• maintenance coordination
  

• legal protection
  

• peace of mind
  

If you’re considering help, December is a great time to have that conversation.

Final Thoughts

Landlords who prepare now will enter 2026 feeling confident and in control. Those who ignore the upcoming changes may struggle to keep up.

Need Help Preparing for 2026?

If you’d like support with compliance, inspections or full management, our team is here for you.

???? Book a call with Family Homes today
Let’s get your rental portfolio New Year ready.