The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulation 2020
A new legislation did come into force as from 1 June 2020, they apply to new tenancies from the 1 July 2020 and all tenancies on the renewal of the tenancy. This also applies to renewal tenancies. All lettings agents and landlords will now have to complete a mandatory electrical condition report (EICR) on the property and these works will need to be carried out by a person who is qualified and competent, at least every five years.
This new regulation applies to assured shorthold tenancies and licenses to occupy.
Exception are set out in Schedule 1 of the Regulations and includes social housing, lodgers, those on a long lease of 7 years or more, student hall of residence, hostels and refuges, care homes, hospitals and hospices, and other accommodations relating to healthcare provisions.
What is expected of privately rented properties.
• Ensure that the electrical safety is met. These guidance has been set out under the 18th edition of the “wiring Regulations” which are published as British Standard 7671.
• The rented property must be tested and inspected by a qualified and competent person at least every 5 years.
• A report following the test will be sent to the landlord/agent prior to the start of the tenancy or before the renewal of the tenancy ( if not done in the previous five years)
• If a report shows that remedial works are required to bring the property up to the current legislation then these works need to be carried out with 28 days of the report.
• There are three codes under the report C1, C2,C3 ( C= Codes). These codes determine the potential hazardous risks. C1 being danger present C2 further investigations required without delay and C3 being advisory and further remedial work is not required
• We supply the landlord/agent confirmation once the works have been complete to confirm the works have been completed to a satisfactory level and that the landlord/agent has complied.
The local authorities may impose a financial penalty of up to £30,000 on landlords who are in breach of their duties.
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