Landlord Electrical Safety Responsibilities

Since 2020, landlords in England have been legally required to have electrical installations inspected and tested every 5 years. Failure to comply can result in fines of up to £30,000.

EICR Requirements for Landlords

What Is an EICR?

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is an inspection of your property's fixed electrical installation. A qualified electrician examines:

Consumer unit and main switch
Wiring and cables
Sockets and switches
Light fittings and ceiling roses
Bonding and earthing

Legal Requirements

New tenancies: EICR must be completed before new tenants move in
Existing tenancies: EICR must be completed by 1 April 2021 (now in effect)
Frequency: Every 5 years or before each new tenancy
Copies: Provide to existing tenants within 28 days
New tenants: Provide a copy before they move in

EICR Outcomes

Code	Meaning	Action Required
C2	Potentially dangerous	Urgent remedial work needed
C3	Improvement recommended	Advisory - not mandatory
FI	Further investigation	Investigation needed

Any C1 or C2 codes mean the report is "unsatisfactory" and remedial work must be completed within 28 days.

PAT Testing for Rental Properties

Is PAT Testing a Legal Requirement?

PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) is not a specific legal requirement for landlords. However, you must ensure any electrical appliances you supply are safe. PAT testing is the best way to demonstrate this.

What Should Be Tested?

If you provide furnished accommodation, consider testing:

Fridges and freezers
Washing machines and dryers
Kettles and toasters
Televisions
Lamps and heaters

Recommended PAT Testing Frequency

Annual testing for furnished properties
Visual checks between tenancies
Immediately if a tenant reports a fault

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Legal Requirements (2022 Update)

Smoke alarms: At least one on every floor
Carbon monoxide alarms: In every room with a fixed combustion appliance
Condition: Must be in working order at the start of each tenancy

Top 10 Electrical Safety Tips for Landlords

Get an EICR every 5 years or more frequently for older properties
Address any C1 or C2 faults immediately - don't wait 28 days
Keep all certificates on file and provide copies to tenants
PAT test supplied appliances annually
Install RCD protection if not already present
Use a registered electrician for all work - keep certificates
Respond quickly to tenant reports of electrical issues
Check for DIY electrical work when buying rental properties
Include electrical safety in tenancy agreements
Consider an annual electrical health check for peace of mind

Costs for Landlords in Devon

Service	Typical Cost
PAT Testing (10 items)	From £100+VAT
Full RCBO consumer unit upgrade	From £499+VAT
Minor repairs (per hour)	£80+VAT

Frequently Asked Questions

Can tenants refuse access for electrical testing?

Tenants must allow reasonable access for safety inspections. Give proper notice and explain the legal requirement.

What if I buy a property without an EICR?

Commission one immediately. You're responsible from day one as a landlord.

Do I need an EICR for an HMO?

Yes, and the requirements may be stricter. Local licensing conditions often require more frequent inspections.

Need landlord electrical services in Devon? Grant's Electrical Solutions offers competitive EICR packages. Call 01626 374 059.

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