THE NEW ELECTRICAL SAFETY STANDARDS

The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020.

The above Regulations were mentioned in my earlier blog "New Standards on the Horizon". The regulations came into force on the 1 June 2020. As a short re-cap the new regulations will apply in England as follows:-

.           All new specified tenancies from the 1 July 2020

.           All existing specified tenancies from the 1 April 2021

I am a Landlord – how does the above affect me?

If the above regulations apply to your property, you will need to ensure the following:-

1. Your property meets the National Standards for electrical safety (18^th Edition of the Wiring Regulations)
2. You will need to ensure that your property is inspected and tested by a qualified and competent person every 5 years.
3. You will need to obtain a report and ensure this report is provided to your tenant within 28 days of the inspection.
4. If it is a new tenancy then supply a copy of the report before your tenant takes occupation.
5. If requested, supply the Local Authority with a copy of the report within 7 days
6. Where a report requires work to be undertaken, such works should be completed within 28 days or shorter period if specified.
7. Ensure Tenant and Local Authority are provided with confirmation that any remedial works have been completed.

Consequences of non-compliance

Local Authorities have powers to impose financial penalties up to the sum of £30,000.00

Landlords should be aware that if a Notice is served upon them then there is a mechanism to Appeal that decision.

Chattertons Solicitors have a specialist Housing Team who can advise and assist you in relation to the above and other Housing related matters. The Team can be contacted via:-

Key contacts:-

Nigel Bescoby             Chartered Legal Executive        01522 781474

nigel.bescoby@chattertons.com

Annette Wood             Solicitor                                   01522 781476

annette.wood@chattertons.com

Andrew Morley            Chartered Legal Executive        01522 551154

andrew.morley@chattertons.com

This blog is written to raise awareness of the issues. While every effort has been made to ensure it is accurate at the time of publication it may not be updated even if the law changes. It is not intended to be specific legal advice and cannot be relied upon as such. Chattertons are not responsible or liable for any action or not taken as a result of this blog.