Having hinted for some time that Electrical Safety measures for landlords would be scrutinised, it appears that Government have now finally taken the steps required to move forward with new legislation.
On 14 January 2020 it was announced that 5 Year Electrical Safety Reports would become mandatory for all new residential tenancies commencing on or after 01 July 2020. All existing residential tenancies will require electrical reports from 01 April 2021.
Ongoing inspections will need to be carried out every 5 years, or sooner if the most recent report requires so. Each inspection will need to be carried out by a qualified and competent person. This as described in the draft legislation “a person competent to undertake the inspection and testing required and any further investigative or remedial work in accordance with the electrical safety standards”.
Once complete, landlords and agents must supply a copy of the report to each existing tenant within 28 days. This also needs to be provided to all new tenants prior to the tenancy. Copies of each electrical report must be retained and supplied to the local housing authority within 7 days (should they request it in writing).
Where a report identifies the requirement for remedial works the landlord has a maximum of 28 days to rectify such issues. This could be even less if the report specifies so. Further paperwork must then be obtained to confirm that the remedial works have been carried out.
Local housing authorities will be granted powers to impose penalties of up to £30,000 for breaches of the regulations, with multiple fines possible in instances where more than one property is found not to meet current standards.
Further information and the official legislation can be found via the .gov website here.
What do we think?
Quite simply, it’s about time that there was a change in law and policy that actually makes sense!
We are big advocates of electrical safety for landlords within rental properties. So it’s great to see that electrical safety is finally being recognised as an important factor in the letting process.
Some landlords may feel confident with the electrical system in their rental property(s). Those that do not meet standards however could require a substantial amount of work. It would therefor be preferable to get the process underway as soon as possible.
You can find out a great deal more about all forms of current landlord legislation by heading over to our landlords legislation page.
How can we help?
We have managed to secure discounts on 5 year electrical safety reports via our reputable and long-standing tradesmen. Clients who have opted into our Full Management service will benefit from these discounts and we will be in touch with those that require certificates in due course.
For landlords who currently self manage their property(s) is it time to consider switching to an Award Winning letting agent?
If so, give us a call today on 0115 981 9651 and ask about our full management service.
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