Electrical Safety Regulations 18th Edition BS7671 to come into force for landlords
Subject to approval by both Houses of Parliament landlords and agents. The Landlords and real state agencies will ensure electrical installation inspections and testing are carried out for all new tenancies in England from 1 July 2020.
The Government has laid The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 meaning landlords must ensure every fixed electrical installation is inspected and tested at least every five years by a qualified person. The Regulations also state that a landlord is required to obtain a report of the results of the inspection and test, supply it to each tenant within 28 days and retain a copy until the next inspection is due.
Upon request, the report must be provided to the local housing authority within 7 days and remedial work within the 28 days.
The Regulations require local housing authorities to enforce the rules and they have the power to arrange remedial action.
Proven breaches of the Regulations can result in the local housing authority imposing a financial penalty of up to £30,000.
