Landlord guide: Epsom and Ewell Council
What landlords and letting agents need to know about property licensing, safety certificates and compliance in Epsom and Ewell Council.
Overview
If you let a property in the Epsom and Ewell Council area, the first step is to confirm which licensing regime the exact address falls under. Mandatory HMO licensing applies to any property let to five or more people forming two or more households who share facilities. The Renters' Rights Act 2025 (main provisions commenced 2026) replaced fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies with periodic assured tenancies, ended section 21 'no-fault' evictions and introduced a national landlord database and ombudsman. Whatever the licensing position, landlords and agents must provide tenants with a current gas safety record (where there is gas), an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) no more than five years old, a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, deposit protection and prescribed information, and all other required prescribed documents before the tenancy starts.
Licensing in Epsom and Ewell Council
Mandatory HMO licensing: Mandatory HMO licensing applies to any property let to five or more people forming two or more households who share a kitchen, bathroom or toilet.. Additional licensing: Epsom and Ewell Council has no additional licensing schemes in operation for smaller Houses in Multiple Occupation as of August 2026.. Selective licensing: Epsom and Ewell Council has no selective licensing schemes in operation for single-family lets or other private rented homes as of August 2026..
Fees and applications
Fees change each year — check the council website for the current schedule. Apply or check a designation at https://www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/housing/private-housing/houses-multiple-occupation-hmos.
Safety and compliance
Keep an annual gas safety record where there is gas, a valid EICR every five years, a current EPC, working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and evidence that you served the required statutory documents at the start of the tenancy.
Renters' Rights Act 2025
Assured shorthold tenancies are replaced by periodic assured tenancies, section 21 is abolished and the possession grounds change. Landlords in Epsom and Ewell Council should review notices, rent increase procedure and record keeping ahead of the main provisions commencing in 2026.
Councils covered
Local rules change frequently. Always confirm licensing designations and fees with the council for the exact address before letting. This guide is general information, not legal advice.