- On Monday, January 13, the government announced the planned introduction of mandatory electrical safety inspections for private owners. A draft of new regulations entitled “Private Security Sector Regulations (England) for Electrical Safety Standards in 2020” has been submitted to Parliament.
What are the current rules?Why are new electricity regulations happening now?When will the 2020 regulations take effect?What do the new regulations mean for homeowners?What does electrical inspection and testing involve?What happens if my electricity is not safe?What are the penalties for unsafe electricity?What type of lease is excluded?What should homeowners do to prepare regulations?
What are the current rules regarding mandatory electrical safety inspections?Currently, Multiple Occupancy Homes (HMOs) require electrical inspections. For other private tenants, it is recommended to issue an Electrical Installation Status Report (EICR) every five years, but this is not technically required by law.
Why are new electricity regulations happening now?The electronic security controls necessary for rental property have been discussed for some time. While many homeowners already practice best electricity practices, the new regulations will help ensure that properties are safe and tenants are safe.
In 2018, the Electrical Standards Working Group held consultations to discuss electrical safety in the private rental sector. In January 2019, the government released a response to the council, which included a series of recommendations, including the requirement that homeowners check their electricity every five years.
Find out what other legal changes can be expected here starting in 2020.
When will they take effect?
If the rules and regulations are approved by Parliament, they:
Effective as of April 1, 2020Apply to all new tenants in England from July 1, 2020Apply to all tenants in England from April 1, 2021What do the new regulations mean for homeowners?Expected regulations establish certain obligations for landowners. All private owners will need:
Make sure electrical safety regulations are followed during the lease when residential facilities are occupied.The person who inspects and inspects each electrical installation in a residential premises at regular intervals (“regular intervals” occur every five years, until the inspection and inspection report is clarified soon).Make sure there is a first inspection and test before starting a new leaseMake sure the first inspection for existing tenants is done before April 1, 2021After inspection and verification, owners must:
Obtain a report from a person who is qualified to inspect and verify, including the results of the inspection and test and the next day’s date.Provide a copy of the report to each existing tenant on the premises within 28 days of the inspectionPlease provide a copy of this report to the local housing authority within 7 days of receiving the request from the authority.Keep a copy of this report with the competent person who will perform the next inspection and verification.Provide a copy of the recent report to new tenants and prospective tenants who request to see it.
What does electrical inspection and testing involve?
Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs), also known as “from time to time,” should be performed by a fully qualified and registered engineer. The purpose of the inspection is:
Find any fire or electric shock hazardIdentify any faulty electrical work.Detect any deficiency or grounding or bonding.Report any excessive load on electrical circuits or devices.Owners should ensure that they are inspected by a qualified electrical engineer, as local authorities and lighting agents will only accept certificates issued by a qualified person.
The engineer will issue an EICR detailing the damage, defects or dangerous conditions found. If this property is considered unsafe, the electrical installation will be declared “unsatisfactory” and will require medical treatment.
