Landlord Guide To Tenant Preparation

Landlords in England have a legal obligation to ensure that the electrical installations in their rental properties are safe. This requirement is set out in the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, which apply to almost all private tenancies, including Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs).

What is an Electrical Safety Certificate?
The certificate is formally called an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). It is produced by a qualified and competent electrician following an inspection of the property’s fixed electrical installations, such as wiring, sockets, fuse boxes, and light fittings. The report identifies whether the installation is safe, lists any defects, and makes recommendations for remedial work.

How often must checks be done?
Landlords must arrange for an EICR to be carried out at least once every five years, or sooner if recommended by the electrician. A new EICR must also be obtained before letting to new tenants if the previous report has expired.

Providing certificates to tenants
The regulations require landlords to provide:

• A copy of the EICR to new tenants before they move in
• A copy to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection
• A copy to the local housing authority within seven days if requested

Keeping accurate records of reports and dates is essential for compliance.

Remedial work
If the report identifies remedial or investigative work, landlords must ensure this is carried out by a qualified person within 28 days, unless a shorter timescale is specified. Written confirmation of the completed work must then be obtained and given to tenants and, if requested, the local authority.

Consequences of non-compliance
Local authorities enforce the regulations and can issue civil penalties of up to £30,000 per breach. Persistent failure to comply can also result in landlords being banned from renting out properties. Importantly, non-compliance may affect the landlord’s ability to serve a valid Section 21 notice for possession.

Best practice
Although checks are legally required every five years, landlords may choose to have interim inspections (e.g. at tenancy changeovers) for added reassurance. Regular visual checks of appliances, plugs, and sockets also help reduce risks between formal inspections.

To Conclude
Electrical safety is a fundamental responsibility for landlords. By arranging regular EICRs, acting promptly on recommendations, and sharing certificates with tenants, landlords protect their tenants from harm, remain compliant with the law, and reduce the risk of costly enforcement action.