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Mandatory electrical checks for all private rental homes could come into effect this year, Andrew Luxton of Stags Residential Lettings department explains.
A comprehensive review of fire safety guidelines will begin this autumn, Housing Secretary James Brokenshire recently announced. As part of the review, it is proposed that all privately-let homes must undergo an electrical installation check every five years.
Andrew Luxton MRICS FARLA, partner in charge of Stags Residential Lettings department, welcomes this announcement as it will help to clear up much of the confusion surrounding electrical safety checks for privately-let homes. As it stands, there are regulations for PAT (Portable Appliance Testing), however no definitive regulations concerning the checking of fixed wiring in privately-let homes are in place. While as a firm we have always recommended that landlords obtain a fixed wiring electrical safety check, this is not currently backed up by legislation.
This announcement forms part of the Government’s drive to improve the overall standard of privately-let homes, but also applies to properties let through the public sector and housing associations. Andrew Luxton adds, “While the announcement should be welcomed in principle, it is important that the requirements are drafted to ensure that the legislation can be implemented in a practical and sensible way."
As a firm we advise landlords on a daily basis about the various legislation and compliance requirements they should be aware of. If you would like any further advice, please do not hesitate to contact a member of Stags’ Lettings department.
