Failing to a get valid landlord electrical safety certificate means you will be operating illegally, and risking your tenant’s safety or a large fine from your local authority. To make sure your property is safe and you’re ticking all the boxes, read our guide.
Current electrical safety laws came in through 2020 and 2021, so you may need a new electrical safety certificate for your private rented property in Wimbledon, Wimbledon Chase, Merton Park or Coombe.
Whether you are a new landlord or recapping the rules, we can help. In this guide to the landlord electrical safety certificate, we explain what the certificate is, how much it costs and more.
The landlords need an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to check that the wiring and electrical installations are in good condition. A competent person must carry out electrical checks – you can consult a resource like Electrical Safety First to find a qualified electrician. You must supply a copy of the certificate to the tenants within 28 days, and the local authority within 7 days, if requested.
But are landlords required to provide an electrical certificate if it’s a new build or you’ve just rewired the property? In these situations, you can supply your Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) instead. An EIC typically lasts for 5 years, after which you must get an EICR. There are also some exceptions covered in Schedule 1 of the regulations, including student halls of residence and social housing.
There are two types of electrical safety check for landlords, the EICR and PAT testing. New regulations brought in across 2020 and 2021 make it a legal requirement for landlords to hold valid Electrical Installation Condition Reports for all rental properties.
PAT testing for appliances isn’t mandatory but is strongly recommended (outlined on gov.uk) as you’re legally responsible for ensuring appliances are safe.
Here’s what you need to know about the process.
During landlord electrical testing, your electrician will carry out a visual inspection and testing. They will usually cover:
Any faults detected during the EICR inspection will be itemised with a code, indicating the level of risk attached to it.
A C1 or C2 code, or an FI, is classed as unsatisfactory. If you need remedial work or further investigation, you’re responsible for this within 28 days, or sooner if advised.
Certificates are valid for up to 5 years and landlords have to hold a valid EICR before tenants move in. However, you don’t need to get a fresh certificate for the start of each new tenancy.
A typical EICR takes between 1 and 4 hours, but the exact time depends on the size of the property and how many circuits there are to test. The age of the wiring can also be a factor.
An EICR lasts 5 years, though get one sooner if your electrical inspector advises it. On occasion, you may be asked to have an earlier inspection.
An Electrical Installation Condition Report costs between £150 to £250 on average, depending on the property size. By comparison, landlords who don’t comply with electrical safety standards can receive a financial penalty of up to £30,000 from their local authority.
Crucially, you cannot let the tenants move in until the failed EICR is dealt with. Follow the recommended course of action within 28 days, or sooner if recommended. The electrical inspector will provide a written declaration after completing remedial works, you don’t need another full inspection.
Portable appliance testing (PAT) ensures that appliances that you supply in the property are fit for use. The average PAT test costs £40-£60 on an hourly rate, or you may be offered a price per item. A competent person will carry out a test and visual inspection of the appliance, lead and plug of each appliance.
If you have any questions about landlord electrical safety certificates and other responsibilities, contact Robert Holmes. We have years of experience with rental properties and property management in South Wimbledon, Wimbledon Village, Roehampton or Kingston.
Ticking off the items on this list will help you keep track of your legal responsibilities when renting out a property.
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