Electrical Safety
If you let property you must ensure that the electrical system and all appliances supplied are safe - failure to comply with the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994 and the The Consumer Protection Act 1987 is a criminal offence and may result in:
- A fine of £5,000 per item not complying
- Six month's imprisonment
- Possible manslaughter charges in the event of deaths
- The Tenant may also sue you for civil damages
- Your property insurance may be invalidated
These regulations are enforced by the Health & Safety Executive.
There is no statutory requirement to have annual safety checks on electrical equipment as there is with gas, but it is advisable for landlords to have periodic checks done by a qualified electrician.
The Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (England)Regulations 2006 requires landlords to ensure that the wiring within HMOs are maintained in a safe condition and in good working order. It also states that every five years, thewiring must be inspected and you must geta certificate that shows the test results and confirms that the installation is safe for continued use.
If the wiringwithin anHMO isfound to be in a defective condition the Council may serve notices on landlords requiring remedial works to remove the risk of injury to tenants.
Landlords’ responsibility for electrical safety
Landlords: Finding a Competent Electrical Installer
Landlords and portable appliances
Rented Accommodation from the Electrical Safety Council
Landlords Guide to the Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation (England)Regulations 2006
