Updated February 2021: All of our landlords have now had their electrical installation condition report undertaken and completed. If you have a rental property and you're looking for a letting agent please get in touch - as part of our commitment to you we will make sure you are compliant with the latest legislation.
What do the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 require?
Landlords of privately rented accommodation must:
- Ensure national standards for electrical safety are met. These are set out in the 18th edition of the ‘Wiring Regulations’, which are published as British Standard 7671.
- Ensure the electrical installations in their rented properties are inspected and tested by a qualified and competent person at least every 5 years.
- Obtain a report from the person conducting the inspection and test which gives the results and sets a date for the next inspection and test.
- Supply a copy of this report to the existing tenant within 28 days of the inspection and test.
- Supply a copy of this report to a new tenant before they occupy the premises.
- Supply a copy of this report to any prospective tenant within 28 days of receiving a request for the report.
- Supply the local authority with a copy of this report within 7 days of receiving a request for a copy.
- Retain a copy of the report to give to the inspector and tester who will undertake the next inspection and test.
- Where the report shows that remedial or further investigative work is necessary, complete this work within 28 days or any shorter period if specified as necessary in the report.
- Supply written confirmation of the completion of the remedial works from the electrician to the tenant and the local authority within 28 days of completion of the works.
What is the deadline?
The regulations came into force on 1st July 2020 for any new tenancies. For existing tenancies the rules apply from 1st April 2021 and landlords must be compliant by then. This applies to the vast majority of the private rented sector. If you think your property may be exempt (e.g. if the tenant is on a long lease of more than 7 years) please contact us and we will advise.
What about Covid?
The government has confirmed that they will not be extending the deadline for complying with these safety standards. If your tenant is refusing access to your property due to Covid 19 you should keep written records of the attempts you have made to comply and explain to your tenant that the electrical check is for their safety. If you have taken all reasonable steps to comply then you would not be considered to be in breach of the regulations
What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Local authorities may impose a financial penalty of up to £30,000 on landlords who are in breach of the regulations