A survey by a firm of solicitors suggests widespread legal non-compliance among landlords.

The Percy Hughes & Roberts Solicitors firm has analysed 559 responses from landlords and tenants and claims that 45% of renters  believe their deposits have not been placed in a government-approved deposit protection scheme. 

This places landlords at risk of legal claims for compensation of up to three times the deposit amount under the Housing Act 2004.

The findings also show that 39% of rented properties did not have a valid Energy Performance Certificate and 15% lacked a valid gas safety certificate, both of which are legal requirements.

Lynne Swanson, a chartered legal executive at PHR Solicitors, says: “Failing to meet deposit protection and safety obligations leaves landlords exposed to serious legal and financial consequences. 

“These are not optional extras – these are legal duties with clear penalties for non-compliance.

“Landlords who do not protect deposits or keep safety documentation up to date risk court action, fines, and reputational damage. 

“Our survey highlights the scale of the issue and the urgent need for landlords to seek professional legal advice to bring their properties in line with the law.”

Percy Hughes & Roberts is a law firm based in Birkenhead.