1. Ensure Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms Are Up to Date

Every rental property in Cardiff, Newport and South Wales must have smoke alarms on each floor and carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with solid-fuel appliances. But installation alone isn’t enough—regular testing is essential.

Schedule alarm checks with tenants every six months. This helps prevent faults, strengthens tenant relationships, and shows you genuinely care about their wellbeing.

Pro Tip:
Document every alarm check with dates and outcomes. This protects you legally and provides a clear audit trail in case of disputes.

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2. Conduct Regular Electrical and Gas Safety Inspections

Electrical issues and gas leaks are major safety risks. Under Welsh legislation, landlords must arrange:

• Annual gas safety checks by a Gas Safe registered engineer

• Electrical installation inspections (EICR) at least every five years

Always provide tenants in Cardiff, Newport or South Wales with copies of the inspection reports.

Pro Tip:
Smart home devices that detect electrical faults or gas leaks can offer early warnings—especially helpful for HMOs and multi-occupancy properties.

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3. Provide Clear and Accessible Fire Safety Instructions

Fire safety goes beyond alarms. Ensure your rental properties in South Wales are equipped with:

• Fire extinguishers (where appropriate)

• Clearly marked escape routes

• Visible fire safety notices

Larger rental properties—particularly HMOs—can benefit from occasional fire drills to help tenants practise evacuation procedures.

Pro Tip:
During inspections, make sure fire exits and escape routes remain clear. Overgrown pathways or blocked exits can turn minor incidents into serious emergencies.

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4. Secure the Property with Quality Locks and Lighting

Strong locks and adequate lighting are essential for preventing break-ins and keeping tenants safe.

Ensure your Cardiff or Newport rental property has:

• High-quality locks on all windows and doors

• Deadlocks on external doors

• Motion-sensitive lighting around entrances

Pro Tip:
Suggest installing a video doorbell for added security. These devices are now standard in many South Wales rental homes and provide both landlords and tenants with peace of mind.

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5. Maintain Plumbing and Prevent Damp or Mould Growth

Damp and mould are common issues in many South Wales properties, especially older terraced homes. These can cause respiratory problems and must be addressed quickly.

Landlords should:

• Ensure ventilation systems work properly

• Repair leaks immediately

• Use anti-mould paint in problem areas

• Schedule regular plumbing inspections

Pro Tip:
Provide dehumidifiers for properties prone to dampness—particularly those in coastal or valley areas. Educate tenants on proper ventilation and the importance of opening windows regularly.

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6. Offer Comprehensive Security Measures for Added Protection

Depending on your property’s location, additional security measures may be beneficial. Properties to let in Cardiff, Newport and South Wales often benefit from:

• CCTV covering external areas

• Secure access systems

• Security gates or controlled communal entry

Pro Tip:
Choose cloud-based CCTV systems that store footage securely for extended periods. This can be invaluable in the event of a security incident.

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7. Educate Tenants on Safety Best Practices

A safe home relies on both landlord responsibilities and tenant cooperation. Provide tenants with a welcome pack including:

• Fire safety guidance

• Maintenance reporting procedures

• Emergency contact information

• Appliance instructions

Pro Tip:
Ask tenants to sign an acknowledgement confirming they’ve received and read your safety information. This encourages responsibility and gives you valuable documentation.

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Ready to Keep Your Property and Tenants Safe?

If you’re looking for specialist guidance on tenant safety or want to make sure your rental property is compliant with regulations across Cardiff, Newport or South Wales, the Fortis team is here to help.

📞 Call us today on 01633 387970
📧 Email: hello@redkeylets.co.uk

Together, we’ll keep your rental property safe, compliant and thriving!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Tenant Safety

What are my legal obligations as a landlord?

You must carry out annual gas safety checks, ensure electrical systems are safe, install working smoke and CO alarms and address damp, mould or structural issues. These rules apply across Cardiff, Newport and South Wales.

How often should smoke alarms be tested?

Smoke alarms should be tested monthly. Landlords should also coordinate periodic checks with tenants.

Are landlords responsible for mould?

Yes. Landlords must address mould caused by structural issues, leaks or poor ventilation. Improving airflow and using anti-mould treatments can help.

What security features are recommended?

Strong locks, secure windows, outdoor lighting, CCTV and communal access systems all enhance tenant safety.

What should be included in a tenant safety pack?

Include fire safety tips, maintenance guidance, emergency contacts, appliance manuals and any property-specific safety rules.