Ownership affects responsibilities, but it does not justify ignoring a reported danger in the home. Keep supplied equipment and tenant possessions clearly distinguished.
Establish ownership
- Use the signed inventory, purchase evidence and any agreement to transfer an item.
- Record replacements during the tenancy so the inventory does not become misleading.
- Distinguish the appliance from the fixed installation serving it.
Handle a fault
- Arrange the appropriate safety response where there is immediate danger.
- Clarify who should organise the repair after the cause and responsibility are established.
- Do not allow a dispute over ownership to delay necessary action to protect people.
At the end of the letting
- Confirm whether an item is being collected, lawfully transferred or left without agreement.
- If the landlord keeps it for the next tenant, assess the safety and maintenance obligations that follow.
- Update the inventory and provide instructions for any retained appliance.
Example: a cooker is left behind
A fictional tenant leaves a gas cooker and the landlord wants to supply it to the next occupant. Establish lawful ownership and have the relevant gas-safety responsibilities assessed before reuse. Its previous tenant ownership does not remain an exemption forever.
What to do
- Record which appliances the landlord supplies.
- Respond appropriately to any reported safety issue.
- Review ownership and safety before retaining an appliance left behind.
Evidence to keep
- Inventory, ownership or transfer agreement and appliance details.
- Reported faults, professional findings and any replacement records.
Sources and guidance
- Gas safety: landlords and letting agentsHealth and Safety Executive · checked 20 October 2026
- Repairing Standard: electrical installations and appliancesScottish Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Electrical safety standards: landlord guidanceUK Government · checked 20 October 2026