What you need to know
This note outlines the legal responsibilities of Parochial Church Councils (PCCs) when providing housing for Curates in Training, in properties owned or managed locally. Even where accommodation is tied to the role and provided by a charity, or Trust, Housing and Safety legislation apply. PCCs must ensure compliance with landlord obligations to maintain safe, habitable, and legally compliant housing.
Key responsibilities
Repairs and maintenance
PCCs must ensure there are:
- Safe installations: Heating, hot water, gas, electricity, and sanitation systems must be in safe working order.
- Habitability: Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, properties must be free from serious hazards and suitable for living. This includes:
- Damp and mould
- Adequate ventilation
- Natural light
- Reliable water supply and drainage
Gas safety
- Annual inspections: All gas appliances must be checked annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
- Certification: Occupants must receive a valid Gas Safety Certificate before moving in and within 28 days of each annual check.
Electrical safety
- EICR: An Electrical Installation Condition Report must be completed by a qualified electrician at least every 5 years.
- Appliance safety: Electrical appliances provided must be safe. While Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is not mandatory, it is considered best practice.
Fire safety
- Smoke alarms: Install at least one on every floor used for living.
- Carbon monoxide alarms: Required in rooms with solid fuel-burning appliances and, since October 2022, also in rooms with fixed combustion appliances (excluding gas cookers).
- Furniture: Any furniture supplied must meet fire resistance standards.
Energy performance
- EPC: An Energy Performance Certificate must be provided unless the accommodation qualifies for a genuine exemption.
Licensing and Local Authority Regulations
- HMO licensing: If the property is shared by multiple unrelated individuals, a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licence may be required.
- Local schemes: Some councils (e.g., Oxford City) require all rental properties to be registered or licensed, regardless of occupancy type.
If you have any questions or queries, please do not hesitate to contact Jane Darling MARLA, at Church House Oxford on 01865 208 248 or via email.