Although not as clearly stated as for Gas, the law requires that a Landlord or Agent ensures that the Electrical system and any appliances are safe at the beginning of a tenancy and that they are maintained throughout the tenancy.
For houses in multiple occupation (blocks of flats etc …) there is also statutory duty for the Landlord or Agent to carry out annual Fire Safety Risk Assessments, which include electrical safety risks.
Annual PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) is a good way for the Landlord to ensure the safety of any electrical appliances that are included with the tenancy.
The Landlords penalties for non-compliance could be a fine of up to £5000 or imprisonment. Additionally, Tenants might sue for civil damages and your property insurance could be invalidated if maintenance and checks cannot be proven.
To demonstrate compliance, we recommend that you consider the following:
- Annually / on tenant changeover - PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) (we can combine this with Gas Safety Inspections)
- Annually / on tenant changeover – visual inspections (we can combine this with Gas Safety Inspections)
- Periodic inspections of electrical equipment by a qualified electrician.
- 5 yearly inspections by a qualified electrician to ensure safety and that the electrical system complies with current electrical regulations.
- Maintain all records of these inspections
This post is intended as guidance only, please contact us for further information, or seek further specialist advice.
