Electrical Safety Standards & Guidelines
Property Letting Guides

It’s your legal requirement to have the electrical installations in your properties inspected and tested by a person who is “qualified and competent”, at least every five years. You are also required to provide a copy of the electrical safety report to your tenants and, if requested, to your local authority.

The Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 includes Electrical Safety Standards that apply to assured shorthold tenancies, houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), and licences to occupy.

(Exceptions to the regulations include social housing, lodgers, those on a long lease of seven years or more, student halls of residence, hostels and refuges, care homes, hospitals and hospices, and other accommodation relating to healthcare provisions).

Compliance checklist for electrical safety

1
In accordance to the 18th edition of the “Wiring Regulations” – you must ensure that national standards for electrical safety are met.
2
At least every five years, you must ensure that all electrical installations in your rented properties are inspected and tested by a qualified and competent person.
3
Obtain the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) report from the inspection. This will include the results – then set a date for the next inspection and subsequent test.
4
A copy of this report must be supplied to your existing tenant within 28 days of the inspection; to new tenants before they move into the premises; and any prospective tenants within 28 days of receiving a request for the report.
5
A copy of this report must be supplied to the local authority within seven days of receiving a request for a copy.
6
Retain a copy of the report to give to the inspector and tester who will undertake the next inspection and test.
7
It’s vital you then complete this work within 28 days (or any shorter period if specified in the report).
8
Once the work has been carried out, share written confirmation from the electrician to the tenant within 28 days of completion.
9
Provide the local authority with the same confirmation within 28 days of completion.

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    Related Requirements

    Fire Safety Guidelines For Your Property
    Energy Requirements For Your Property
    The Landlord’s Property Repair Responsabilities
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      28 December 2022

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