Electrical safety legislation targeted at Landlords carries a £30,000 fine
New legislation on electrical safety standards coming into effect on 1st April 2021 will force Landlord’s to ensure that every fixed electrical installation is inspected and tested by a qualified electrician at least every five years.
Failure to comply, or failure to remedy any issues highlighted in the report can result in a hefty fine of up to £30,000.
The new regulations already apply to new tenancies, having come into force last July, but are now being applied to existing tenancies from Thursday, 1st April.
What do I need to know?
This legislation applies to private landlords. Social housing, long leases and student halls of residence are excluded from the legislation.
Remedial work must be carried out within 28 days of the inspection, or sooner if specified in the report.
The period between checks may be shorter than the five-year timeframe if any electrics are found to be compliant, but aged. Check your own report thoroughly to ensure you remain compliant.
You are required by law to supply a copy of the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to existing tenants. Ensure you also retain a copy of the report for the next inspector.
What do I need to do?
If it has been longer than five years since the electrical safety of your rental property was checked, you must book an inspection as soon as possible.
Retain the inspection report for your records and follow any instructions outlined.
Abbie Dickson-Davies
