New Electrical Safety Regulations to come into force from the 1st of July
New Electrical Safety Regulations to come into force from the 1st of July
Landlords and agents will need to ensure electrical installation inspections and testing are carried out for all new tenancies in England from 1st of July 2020, or from the 1st of April 2021 for existing tenancies.
The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations compels landlords to ensure every fixed electrical installation is inspected and tested at least every five years by a qualified person. The Regulations also state that a landlord is required to obtain a report of the results of the inspection and test and supply it to each tenant within 28 days and retain a copy until the next inspection is due.
Upon request, the report must be provided to the local housing authority within 7 days. A copy of the report must be supplied to a new tenant before occupation, or any prospective tenant within 28 days of a request from the prospective tenant.
The regulations will be enforced by the local housing authorities and they have the power to arrange a remedial action. Proven breaches of the Regulations can result in the local housing authority to impose a financial penalty of up to £30,000 on the landlord.
An additional burden on Landlords or a practical safety measure?
Fisks London welcomes this new legislation. The old legislation could be confusing for both landlords and tenants. Landlords had a duty of care to the tenant to ensure electrical installations are safe but there was no requirement to have the installation inspected by a qualified person or to provide a certificate. This new legislation provides much needed clarity and will help to ensure safer standards within the private rented sector.
How do I arrange an Electrical installation inspection and certificate?
Fisks London have access to qualified competent contractors, and we have negotiated a competitive inspection charge of £180 inc vat.
We will ensure that the existing tenants and any prospective tenant is provided with a copy of the certificate. Should any remedial work be required, this will be overseen by Fisks London on behalf of our landlord clients.
Our managed clients need not worry about renewing the certificate, Fisks London will ensure that the mandatory inspection is carried out every five years.
For more information or to arrange an inspection contact Lubna@Fiskslondon.co.uk.