Electrical Certificate For Landlords
Safety inspections and tests for electrical safety are now mandatory for landlords of residential properties in England.
These are referred to as EICRs (Electrical Installation Condition Reports). These reports are typically completed by an engineer or other qualified person.
The law
If you are a landlord who rents out residential properties, you might be aware of the law that obliges you to conduct electrical security checks on your property. This is to protect your tenants from fires and electric shocks.
The new legislation came into effect in July 2020 and will be applicable to all tenancies made or renewed after that date. All rental properties in England require an electrical safety certificate (EICR) which will be required from April 2021.
Getting an EICR isn't always easy, though. It's a complicated piece of paperwork that needs to be executed by a licensed electrician. It includes a thorough examination of the entire wiring system that is in the property.
There's also a classification code which is used to assess the level of danger that the wiring installation is at This can help you determine whether you'll need to do any remedial work before the inspection. For example, if the C3 classification code has been issued, it could be necessary to upgrade the wiring system.
If the electrical wiring on your property is in good working order You can prove that reasonable precautions were taken to ensure it conforms to safety standards. You should also prove that you attempted to plan the work, including communicating with your electrician or tenant.
You can also prove that you're complying with the regulations by presenting your property to the local authority or any other regulatory body to be inspected. If they discover that you're not in compliance with the law's requirements, local authorities may issue you an order for and fine.
Contact us if you're a private landlord and wish to know more about the new regulations or need advice on how to fulfill your legal obligations. Our team will assist you to comprehend your obligations and guide you on how to obtain an EICR set up. We can also help you adhere to the new regulations and make sure that your rental properties conform to the latest guidelines.
Tenancy agreements
A tenancy agreement is an agreement that permits landlords to lease their property for a specific time. These agreements are typically for an agreed-upon period and cannot be altered by either party. They also state the amount of rent to be paid and the date by which it must be paid.
There are several different types of tenancy agreements depending on the length of the tenancy as well as the kind of property to be let. These include the term for years of tenancy the periodic tenancy, the tenancy at will and the tenancy with sufferance.
Both tenants and landlords have to make the right choice when it comes to choosing the best type of agreement. It's an art of balancing the flexibility of short tenancies that can result in empty periods and additional advertising costs as well as the security provided by longer tenancies that ensure your income.
The landlord's decision is critical as it will affect how much the property can be rented out and the length of time the tenant can stay in the property. In general, long-term tenancies are preferred because they offer security for both parties.
Electrical certificates prove that the electrical appliances in a property are safe to use, and it can save both landlords and tenants in the long run. An EICR is valid in the event that a local authority inspects the property. It can also give tenants peace of mind as they know you have taken safety precautions.
It also shields you from being penalized if you fail to adhere to the regulations. If the local authority believes that you haven't taken reasonable measures to ensure the security and well-being of your tenants, they can issue you a reprimand note requiring you to finish the work within the specified time or be subject to a financial penalty.
These regulations are applicable to all tenancies, both new and old. If you are able arrange an inspection for electrical safety before April 2021. Once you have an EICR that is valid it will be valid for 5 years.
Requirements for remedial work
As a landlord, you're legally required to ensure that your property is compliant with electrical safety standards outlined in the regulations. This includes having a valid EICR and any needed remedial work.
You could face a fine of up to PS30,000 if your home doesn't meet the requirements. Alternatively, you could be served with a letter from the local authority requesting that remedial work be carried out to ensure compliance with the regulations.
You must ensure that your property is secure by hiring a qualified electrician to make any repairs. It is also a good idea to ask your tenants to confirm that the person who is doing the work is a registered electrician.
An electrician will inspect a home to ensure that all electrical components comply with British Standards and are safe to continue use. This will result in the release of a report (usually an EICR) that details the findings of their inspection and test.
The report can show that the electrical systems have been tested and are safe to continue using, or suggest further investigation. Generally, where the report indicates that both C1 and C2 hazards are present it is necessary for them to be made safe prior to when the tenant moves into.
However when the report recommends improvement , but does not require further investigation or remedial work to be carried out it is advised to complete the work to ensure that you meet electrical safety standards.
If you are a landlord and are unsure of the status of your property, it is recommended to speak with your letting agent to see what action they can take. The agent who is letting your property can help you contact an experienced electrician and arrange for an inspection to be carried out on your property. They can also assist you obtain an EICR and advise on any other work that needs to be completed.
Inquiring about an EICR
It is vital to have an electrical certificate (EICR), if you are a landlord of a rental property. It's security from the law and peace of mind.
An EICR is a report that identifies defects or deterioration, damages, or conditions that may pose a danger to the electrics within your home. It also provides recommendations for improvement and help ensure the compliance with UK law.
Contact a trusted electrician to get the report. The electrician will examine the electrical system and determine the overall condition of the installation.
Landlords should make sure that they have an EICR is conducted at least once every five years or following the end of a tenancy change. These intervals can be reduced according to the condition of your property and also if there are unusual circumstances, for example, after a flood or fire.
A professional electrician can give you the best guidance on the type of EICR you require for your home according to the size, use and other aspects. The report will be priced according to them. This can be a flat fee or a per circuit price.
In order to get the most value from your EICR it is crucial to choose a technician who has extensive knowledge of this field and is registered with the Electrical Competent Person Scheme. These qualifications are the only way to ensure that you're hiring a reliable and qualified technician to perform the inspection.
It's a good idea inquire from your electrician if they are able to provide you with an insurance policy for the work they carry out. This will help you avoid any unexpected expenses should issues occur.
Once you have found the most suitable electrician, you are able to schedule a time for your EICR to be conducted. It can take between 2 and 4 hours.
electrical certification uk of the EICR will be delivered to you within 28 days of the inspection. The results will be made available for you to show to your local authority or prospective tenants.