Gerry Mason-Rowles runs Warrington-based James Peacock Property and explains about a new law landlords should be aware of

Over the past two years there have been several updates to legislation affecting the UK rental market and James Peacock Property has been at the forefront, keeping clients up to date and helping to ensure their properties in Warrington are the safest and most secure.

On July 1, a new law came into force to ensure all properties have an electrical safety check (and certificate) every five years, but with the Covid-19 outbreak affecting the ability to enter properties and book in electricians it hasn’t been as straightforward as it might have been.

It is an important step in raising the standard for property rentals in the UK

In summary, the guidance lays out that:

Landlords of privately rented accommodation must:

  •  Ensure national standards for electrical safety are met. These are set out in the 18th edition of the ‘Wiring Regulations’, which are published as British Standard 7671.
  •  Ensure the electrical installations in their rented properties are inspected and tested by a qualified and competent person at least every 5 years.
  •  Obtain a report from the person conducting the inspection and test which gives the results and sets a date for the next inspection and test.
  •  Supply a copy of this report to the existing tenant within 28 days of the inspection and test.
  •  Supply a copy of this report to a new tenant before they occupy the premises.
  •  Supply a copy of this report to any prospective tenant within 28 days of receiving a request for the report.
  •  Supply the local authority with a copy of this report within 7 days of receiving a request for a copy.
  •  Retain a copy of the report to give to the inspector and tester who will undertake the next inspection and test.
  •  Where the report shows that remedial or further investigative work is necessary, complete this work within 28 days or any shorter period if specified as necessary in the report.
  •  Supply written confirmation of the completion of the remedial works from the electrician to the tenant and the local authority within 28 days of completion of the works.

At James Peacock Property I’ve always insisted that properties undergo an electrical safety check, smoke alarm installation and gas safety certificate, however, there are landlords, and some agencies that may overlook them in order to Let a property quickly. In my view that just exacerbates the perception of dodgy landlords, and it is not great for this growing industry.

The Covid-19 outbreak slowed our progress towards compliance with electrical testing, but we’re pleased to announce that we are finally there and all our landlord properties are compliant, meaning our tenants can sleep safely and easy.