Landlords in England have clear legal obligations when it comes to the electrical safety of their properties. Failing to comply can result in fines of up to £30,000 — and more importantly, puts tenants at risk. Here's a complete guide to your obligations.
The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020
These regulations came into force in 2020 and apply to all private rental properties in England. They require landlords to:
1. Ensure the electrical installation is inspected and tested at least every 5 years by a qualified person (an EICR must be obtained)
2. Obtain a copy of the report produced by the inspector
3. Supply a copy of the report to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection
4. Supply a copy to any new tenant before they occupy the property
5. Supply a copy to any prospective tenant within 28 days of a written request
6. Supply a copy to the local authority within 7 days of a written request
7. Retain a copy until the next inspection and supply to the inspector
8. Carry out any remedial work identified within 28 days (or a shorter period if specified in the report)
What Is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a formal inspection and test of the fixed electrical installation in your property — wiring, consumer unit, sockets, switches and all fixed electrical equipment. A qualified electrician carries out the inspection and produces a written report with any defects classified and prioritised.
The report will be rated either Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory. An unsatisfactory report requires remedial action.
Who Can Carry Out an EICR?
The inspector must be a "qualified person" — in practice, this means a qualified electrician who is a member of a competent person scheme such as NICEIC, NAPIT or ELECSA. At Onyx Electrical Solutions, we are NICEIC approved.
Remedial Work Requirements
If your EICR identifies C1 or C2 observations (dangerous or potentially dangerous defects), you must:
- Have the remedial work carried out within 28 days (or sooner if specified)
- Have a further inspection confirm the remedial work is complete
- Provide written confirmation of the works completed to all tenants
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Under separate regulations (Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations 2022), landlords must:
- Install at least one smoke alarm on every storey
- Install a carbon monoxide alarm in any room with a fixed combustion appliance
- Ensure all alarms are working at the start of each tenancy
Fixed Electrical Equipment
All fixed electrical appliances provided as part of the tenancy (cookers, dishwashers, washer-dryers) must be maintained in a safe condition. While PAT testing (Portable Appliance Testing) of portable appliances is not legally required, it is considered good practice.
Record Keeping
Keep all EICR certificates, electrical installation certificates and records of remedial works. These will be required if any dispute arises and form part of your compliance evidence.
Onyx Electrical Solutions carries out landlord EICRs and remedial electrical works across Greater Manchester. Call 07000 000000 to book an inspection.