Landlords Must Be Aware Of Electrical Safety Changes

Landlords must stay up to date with regulations, and we are here to assist South West London landlords manage their rental property.

It is vital landlords stay up to date with regulations, which is one area we try to offer support to South West London landlords. There have been many new regulations in recent years, and other regulations have been updated. However, there are new regulations coming into force later this year, and landlords should familiarise themselves with The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020.

The House of Commons and House of Lords are still to approve The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, but this shouldn’t be an issue. Therefore, landlords should be aware the new regulations will come into force from 1 July 2020. All new tenancies which begin on or after this date are required to have a five-year electrical certificate in place. This check must be undertaken by a registered electrician.

Landlords should act on the renewal date stated in the report

While the majority of certification will be valid for five years, this won’t always be the case. If the qualified engineer recommends the property be tested in a period less than five years, it will be stated in the report. The landlord should follow the date which comes soonest.

For existing tenancies, the relevant date is 1 April 2020. Some landlords may think this provides them with plenty of time to prepare for the new regulations, but you must consider what will happen if a tenant leaves their property. If this occurs leaving a new tenant moving in on or after 1 July 2020, the new regulations will be in force. Therefore, it is best for landlords to prepare themselves for the new regulations.

Similarities exist with Gas Safety regulations

Landlords who already comply with Gas Safety regulations will be familiar with what is required with Electrical Safety regulations. When the landlord receives their certificate, they must provide a copy of the certificate to the tenant within 28 days.

At the start of a new tenancy, landlords must provide a copy of the certificate to tenants. During the pre-let phase, potential tenants have the right to request a copy of the electrical safety certificate from the landlord, and the landlord must supply this in 28 days.

Liaise with local authorities

Local council authorities have the right to request a copy of the electrical safety certificate from the landlord. This should be provided within seven days. As local authorities have the right to impose a financial penalty on landlords regarding electrical safety matters, landlords should work closely with local authorities on this matter. Fines of up to £30,000 can be imposed on landlords.

If the report states remedial work must be carried out, landlords should comply within 28 days. Alternatively, if the report states work must be carried out sooner, a landlord should respond to the earliest date. When work has been carried out, the landlord should receive written confirmation of the work. A copy of this confirmation should be provided to tenants.

We know landlords have a lot to consider when letting property in South West London, but this is why we are here to help. If you need assistance letting South West London property, contact Ariston today.