As a reputable landlord, you take your duty of care to your tenants seriously. You want to ensure the tenants and your property are safe.
A landlord electrical safety certificate, also known as an electrical installation condition report (EICR) helps you to do just that. If you are a landlord of either a single dwelling or a HMO, Electrical Experts are the go-to experts for landlord electrical safety reports in Coventry.
What is a Landlord Electrical Safety Certificate?
A landlord electrical safety certificate is the written report that follows a qualified electrician’s thorough inspection and testing of the electrical installation in a property. They are also known as electrical installation condition reports (EICR) and have been a legal requirement since April 1st, 2021. The aim of the electrical safety inspection is to highlight any potential electrical issues that pose a risk to the occupants. During the inspection your electrician will be testing the wiring, sockets, fuse box and all elements of your property’s electrical installation to ensure they are safe.
What are a landlords responsibilities under the Electrical Safety Regulations?
The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 state that all landlords of privately rented accommodation must:
• Ensure the standards set out in the 18th edition of the wiring regulations BS7671 are adhered to.
• Ensure a qualified and competent person inspects and tests the electrical installation of the property at least every 5 years.
• Obtain a report or certificate from the electrician who performed the inspection detailing results and the date for the next inspection.
• Supply a copy of the report to the tenant within 28 days and to any new tenant prior to occupation,
• Supply the local authority with a copy of the report or certificate within 7 days if requested.
• Retain a copy of the EICR to present at the next electrical safety inspection.
• If the report details any work is required, to have this work completed within 28 days or less if specified.
• To give written confirmation of completion of work within 28 days to both the tenant and the local authority.
Failure to obtain an electrical safety certificate can result in a fine of up to £30,000. It is in a landlord’s best interest to comply with these regulations.
What does an inspection for an Electrical Installation Condition Report cover?
The electrical inspection and testing for an EICR is thorough and detailed. The electrician will look at a number of areas to ensure there are no faults or risks of fire or shock. They will:
• Ensure there is no risk to personal safety
• Check that earthing and bonding are in place
• Check sockets, switches and hardwired appliances
• Review any previously completed electrical work
• Check wiring and the fuse board/consumer unit in a property
Following their inspection, they will prepare your report which will detail any improvements and repairs that are necessary.
If you are a landlord in Coventry and would like to arrange to have an EICR completed by a fully qualified, highly experienced electrician, call Electrical Experts today. My professional, reliable team and I will be happy to share our expertise and help you keep your tenants safe.