What happens during a council property inspection?
An environmental health officer inspects against the HHSRS and any licence conditions, usually after a tenant complaint or as part of a licensing scheme.
3 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
An environmental health officer inspects against the HHSRS and any licence conditions, usually after a tenant complaint or as part of a licensing scheme. They will ask for your certificates and can issue improvement notices or civil penalties.
Practical guidance
- Have gas, electrical, EPC, licence and alarm records ready in one place.
- Attend if you can and take your own photographs of what is raised.
- Agree a written schedule of works with deadlines rather than waiting for the notice.
Related content
General information for UK landlords and letting agents, not legal advice. Rules differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland — check your local requirements or take advice before acting.