New electrical regulations in 2021 require Landlord’s to arrange an EICR electrical inspection and EICR certificate for all private rented properties.
As a Landlord, you MUST comply with the rules or face a fine up-to £30,000
In July 2020, the new electrical testing regulations came into effect for new tenancies, with only 2 weeks left – from 1st April 2021 this is extended to cover all existing tenancies and are designed to improve tenant safety.
What is an electrical certificate?
A property must be tested every 5 years. The landlord electrical safety certificate is a written report – usually an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report). The cost of which is dependant usually on the size of your property and how many appliances you have.
What are the new regulations?
The regulations involve inspection and testing of all properties in the private rental sector.
Landlord’s need to ensure their property is inspected and tested by a qualified person every 5 years. There’s a legal obligation to supply a copy of the inspection and test report to your tenants, and if requested, the local authority. Any new tenants should be given a copy before they occupy the premises, existing tenants given a copy within 28 days of the inspection and test, the local authority supplied a copy within 7 days of request. If a prospective tenant requests a copy, this should also be done within 28 days.
The National standards for electrical safety is set out in the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations. A qualified electrician can discuss this in more detail.
Any remedial work in the report, must be dealt with within 28 days of the test report (or shorter as specified). An Electrician will give written confirmation that they have completed the necessary work to you, tenant and local authority within 28 days of completion.
What tenancies does the regulations cover?
Assured Shorthold Tenancies, licences to occupy, HMO’s all require certification.
Exceptions to the regulations include social housing, lodgers, long leases of 7 years or more, hostels, refuges, care homes, student halls of residence and specific healthcare accommodation. All of which carry their own regulations.
What do Landlords need to do to get a Landlords electrical certificate?
Ensure your inspections and tests are booked in and installations are safe. Find a qualified and competent person to carry out the work and ensure the test is repeated every 5 years.
Inform the electrician where installations are if possible, including fixed electrical parts, sockets, light fittings, consumer unit, showers, extractors. NB Tenants are responsible for making sure their own appliances are safe.
What about covid restrictions?
You many find it difficult to carry out the inspections ahead of the cut-off date of 1st April. The government recognise this so don’t panic! If a tenant has been advised to isolate the inspection may need to be postponed, however, you will need to show that you have taken all reasonable steps to comply, so keep a note of all emails, failed access et and complete as soon as possible.
If in doubt about your legal responsibilities, struggling to find someone to do the work this month, or just have a query, feel free to get in touch via email info@piim.co.uk