Back in June, a new set of Electrical Safety Standards Regulations were introduced for the Private Rented Sector. This would require landlords in England to have an inspector test the electrical installations in their properties at least every 5 years. Whilst these new regulations won’t apply to existing tenancies until April 21st 2021, an electrical safety report is required for any new tenancies signed June 1st onwards.
What is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)?
The purpose of an EICR is to assess whether a property’s electrical installation is in a safe condition. If it is unsafe or otherwise requires work, details of this should be included in the report for the property owner to carry out. Once completed, tenants have a right to a copy of the EICR within 28 days, and if any work is required, then this must also be completed within that timeframe.
Once all remedial work is completed, another EICR shouldn’t be required. However, evidence should be kept on hand for any and all work that has been completed as required by the report. This can then be shared with the tenants in order to prove compliance.
Who can perform an Electrical Installation Condition Report?
For an EICR to be recognised as valid, the report must be carried out by a qualified inspector. In order to find someone that is qualified, landlords can either:
Check if the inspector is a member of a competent person scheme; or
Require the inspector to sign a checklist certifying their competence, including their experience, whether they have adequate insurance and hold a qualification covering the current version of the Wiring Regulations and the periodic inspection, testing and certification of electrical installations.
Landlords can also find a qualified electrician via the Registered Competent Person Electrical website.
COVID-19 Leniencies
With the latest Electrical Safety Standards Regulations introduced June 1st, the UK was in the middle of its lockdown. This presented a number of challenges for landlords, tenants and electricians to complete an EICR. In order to overcome this, the government has provided some guidance and granted leniency where landlords can evidence of their attempts and provide records of previous electrical work.
Looking to learn more about the latest Electrical Safety Standards Regulations, how this might affect you and how to acquire an Electrical Installation Condition Report? You can trust our expert Lettings team to give you the best support. Get in touch today.