The UK government has released guidance this month on the electrical safety standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020.
There are three sets of guidance with separate versions released for landlords, tenants, and local authorities in England.
Private landlords must ensure:
*National standards for electrical safety are met.
*The electrical installations in their rented properties are inspected and tested by a qualified and competent person at least every five years.
*They obtain a report from the person conducting the inspection and test which gives the results and sets a date for the next inspection and test.
In addition, they must also supply a copy of this report to the existing tenant within 28 days of the inspection and test or to a new tenant before they occupy the premises.
They must also supply a copy of this report to any prospective tenant within 28 days of receiving a request for the report and the local authority must receive a copy within seven days of a request.
A copy of the report must also be retained to give to the inspector and tester carrying out the next inspection and test.
Where the report shows that remedial or further investigative work is necessary, this work must be completed within 28 days (or any shorter period if specified).
The landlord must then supply written confirmation of the completion of the remedial works from the electrician to the tenant and the local authority within 28 days of completion of the works.
