So, as we expected at some point in 2020, the Government has laid The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020.
This means that subject to the approval of the houses of Parliament all landlords and estate agents must ensure that electrical installation inspections and testing are going to be carried out for ALL old tenancies from the 1st of April 2021 or for new tenancies in England from 1st of July 2020.
These regulations mean landlords must ensure that every electrical installation at a rented property must be inspected and tested at least every 5 years. This must be conducted by a fully qualified electrician.
This report must be provided to any existing tenant within 28 days and a copy must be retained until the next report is due. Upon request, this document must also be provided to the local governing housing body within 7 days. The landlord must supply a copy of the report to any tenant before they move in or any prospective tenant within 28 days of a request from them.
These regulations require local housing authorities to enforce upon these rules and have the power to arrange action against those who do not conduct the reports. Any breaches in these new regulations means the local housing authority can impose a fine up to a huge £30,000!
Massive changes are likely to follow with many landlords having to conduct these reports and complete works to their properties to ensure the safety of their tenants. This can only be a positive step in providing assurances to tenants that their new or current property is in a habitable and safe condition.
Neil Newstead FARLA MNAEA MIRPM
CEO – Oakfield Estate Agents