The Electrical Safety Regulation Update

Whether you own commercial or privately rented property, as a landlord you have various responsibilities concerning health and safety. This includes checks and certifications to prove the property is fit for letting and also the carrying out of necessary repairs and maintenance within specified time periods. Therefore you must be aware of changes in legislation such as The Electrical Safety Regulation Update.

New Electrical Safety Regulations

New electrical safety regulations were implemented for landlords in June 2020 regarding inspections, safety standards and improvements. The new regulations aim to improve the safety and conditions of rental properties across the country.

Landlords must do the following:

• All electrical installations must be tested by a qualified individual at least once every five years.
• A report must be obtained from the inspector detailing the results and date of next inspection. The landlord must keep this report for future inspectors and provide a copy to the tenant within 28 days of the inspection.
• Any work outlined in the report must be completed within 28 days of the inspection. Written confirmation of the completion of work  must be given to the tenant with 28 days of completion.

These regulations apply to all private tenants with some exceptions for long-term leases, student housing and care homes. They also apply to commercial property unless otherwise specified in the lease agreement. As a landlord you must ensure you are familiar with the most recent regulations to avoid negligence. Click here to read the full list of exceptions.

5 Factors which may present problems:

1. Overloaded electrical installations
2. Electric shock risks
3. Fire hazards
4. Defective electrical work
5. Lack of earthing or bonding

As a landlord you can ensure good maintenance of electrical installations to avoid the above problems. However, if the inspector finds repairs necessary, they must be carried out within the specified time period. Failure to do so may lead to the local authority serving you with a notice and ordering work to be carried out, with the costs to be recouped from you. If you are found to be in violation of the above regulations, fines of up to £30,000 can incur. Make sure your property is compliant with The Electrical Safety Regulation Update!

 

Additional Checks you must do

Other responsibilities include gas safety and fire safety, which require checks and certification similar to the electrical safety regulations. The maintenance of fixtures and fittings, and general health and safety of the property also form part of your responsibility as a landlord.

 

Mould

Issues like mould fall under the category of general health and safety. You must prevent mould to avoid your property becoming uninhabitable or posing a health risk to your tenants. Mould can be more prevalent during warmer months making it more important to look out for. Unfortunately, mould can grow in most places and can initially go undetected. However, once it begins to grow, it can be very difficult and costly to eliminate. This makes it all the more important to prevent. Infestations begin when airborne spores combine with moisture so you should take these 4 steps to avoid it:

1. Ventilate: Ensure extractor fans are used and windows are regularly opened to release moisture from bathrooms and kitchens specifically.
2. Clean: Make sure leaks and spills are cleaned up quickly.
3. Dry clothes properly: Hanging clothes on radiators can create excessive condensation and mould can also develop on the clothes.
4. Check outside: Make sure water is properly draining from your building and that your roof and chimney are in good condition as leaks can go unnoticed causing greater problems.

Landlord’s Insurance

Ensuring that you fulfil these responsibilities is crucial for your landlord’s insurance. Your policy may be void if you have failed to adhere to any of these regulations and a claim has occurred as a result of your negligence.

Having an appropriate insurance policy, and understanding the details of it, will help to cover you against unexpected events in the future. This has been evidenced by recent events such as the coronavirus pandemic that left many properties vacant (especially commercial properties) and therefore vulnerable to issues such as vandalism and frozen pipes. Landlord’s insurance can protect you against insurable events, such as these, by enabling you to make a claim and recuperate the costs of fixing these problems. You can protect yourself in the future by working with insurance professionals and addressing any recommendations made by your insurer to reduce risks. Providing detailed information about your property and undertaking thorough risk management will enable your insurer to tailor your policy to best fit your requirements.

Click here for the full list of private renting property responsibilities.

Click here for the general list of landlord responsibilities.

 

As a landlord you have a lot of responsibilities to ensure your property remains safe and fit for rental purposes. At Gaurdian we are here to help you and provide you with insurance to protect you against potential risks. Being aware of the safety regulation update and other important checks can help make sure your insurance can cover you against other circumstances.

We are highly experienced in property insurance and will tailor a policy to your requirements. If you would like to discuss a new or existing policy, please contact us or call today on 01942 665 788