New laws for landlords are coming into play all the time and if you do own your own property, you need to be aware of them. During 2020 and 2021, a new law in England came into effect about fixed wire testing, creating a level playing field for all landlords. This was implemented to make electrics in houses safer and to make sure that any work this is carried out gets done. From EPC certificates to new health and safety regulations, there is plenty that landlords need to be aware of.
There are a few things you need to be aware of, from when this new law applies to your tenants, who you can employ to carry out the inspection and what exactly it involves. Doing this right will mean there will be less work for you in the long run and you will be knowledgeable about this new law too.
What Are the New Laws for Landlords?
During 2020 and 2021 new laws are coming into play which all landlords need to be aware of. They involve fixed wire testing and aim to provide tenants with a safe house to live in that functions properly. Before this law, there was an expectation that ‘good landlords’ would carry out inspections and testing, but the law didn’t make this a necessity. Now, these tests and inspections need to be carried out every 5 years on rented premises.
When Do These Fixed Wire Testing Laws Come Into Play?
These new laws on fixed wire testing came into play on 1 June 2020 and applied to new tenants from the 1 July 2020. Landlords have a little bit longer to consider these new laws for existing tenants, as these would be enforced for them on 1 April 2021.
This means that during 2021 all landlords will have to be up-to-date and up to scratch with these new laws as legally, they have to provide a report to existing and prospective tenants, as well as governing bodies too.
The Electrical Safety Inspection, What Does it Involve?
The purpose of the inspection is to make sure that all the electrics are in good working order and that the property is safe to live in. The responsibility lies with the landlord now to book an inspection by a qualified and competent person, who will provide a report on their findings.
When the property is inspected, they will look at the fixed electrical parts in the property (excluding items like lamps and fridges, for example). This includes the wiring, plug sockets, fuse boxes and light fittings. This also includes electrical appliances in the bathroom such as extractor fans and showers too.
On the report, it will show if there are any dangers and risks or if any further investigation needs to be carried out in the future and any recommendations for improving the safety and functioning of the house.
Who You Need to Provide a Electrical Safety Report To
The Tenant
As a landlord, once the tests and inspections have been carried out, you have to give the tenant a copy of the report within 28 days.
Local Authorities
Local bodies can request fixed wire testing reports and if they do, you need to give it to them within 7 days.
Future Inspectors
Landlords also need to keep a copy of the past report and give it to the next inspector, when the next tests are carried out every 5 years.
Proof of Further Work
If it turns out that your property does need further work to make it safer and to meet current standards, you will need proof that this is going ahead. Landlords must complete this remedial work within 28 days of the inspection, to ensure the property is safe to be lived in.
Finding a Qualified Person to Carry Out the Property Inspection
It is essential that you find a competent and qualified person to carry out this inspection. Any person who carries out fixed wire testing reports will need to sign a checklist, providing their previous experience and qualifications. Because of this, you want to ensure you employ the right person, to save yourself the hassle in the long run.
Here at UKSM, we have a team of electricians who specialise in fixed wire testing and can provide this service for you as well as electrical installation and maintenance if you need it. They will talk you through the report, let you know about any issues and give great advice too, due to their years of experience in the industry.
We also offer a range of other safety services, such as PAT testing and fire extinguisher testing, ensuring your property remains safe and compliant.
If you want to find out more about fixed wire testing and new laws as a landlord, simply contact us today. You can read about similar news and topics on our blog, as well.
