Quick answer
Private landlords of single dwellings are not caught by CAR 2012 Regulation 4 for the interior of the flat or house. They are caught for communal areas of blocks, and by common-law duty of care and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018. HMO landlords face additional local authority requirements.
Single tenanted dwellings
The interior of a single dwelling let on an AST is domestic premises. CAR 2012 Regulation 4 does not apply to the interior. However, the landlord retains: repair obligations under s11 Landlord and Tenant Act 1985; the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018; and a common-law duty of care to tenants and contractors.
Communal areas and HMOs
Communal parts of blocks and HMOs are non-domestic. Full CAR 2012 Regulation 4 duty to manage applies — register, plan, reinspection, contractor briefing.
Practical minimum
For any pre-2000 letting, a one-off Management Survey giving the landlord a documented understanding of what is present is prudent. Cost: typically £220–£380 plus VAT for a flat, £280–£520 plus VAT for a house.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
Do I have to give the report to my tenant?+
There is no explicit statutory duty, but disclosure protects you if the tenant later disturbs material.
What if a contractor damages asbestos?+
You may be liable if you failed to provide reasonable information about known risks.