As of the 1st July 2020, Landlords must now ensure that all properties that have a new tenancy agreement entered into have an electrical installation inspection carried out. This will be extended to existing tenancy agreements from the 1st April 2021.The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 laid out by the Government require landlords to ensure that every fixed electrical installation be inspected and tested every 5 years. This must be carried out by a qualified person.
As per the Regulation, the landlord must obtain a report of the results following the inspection and test and supply a copy to the tenants within 28 days. They must also retain a copy until the next inspection.Things you need to know:
- A landlord must provide a copy of the last report to any new tenant prior to occupation, or to any prospective tenants within 28 days of request.
- Should the local authority request a copy of a report, this must be supplied by the landlord within 7 days.
- The regulation allows local authorities to enforce these rules and they have the power to arrange remedial action.
- Financial penalties of up to £30,000 can be award should a local authority find evidence of a breach of the regulations.Should you have any questions regarding your obligations under this new legislation, please contact us on 01202 805050.
