On 1^st June 2020, new regulations will come into force requiring private landlords in England to meet electrical safety standards by undertaking safety checks in their tenanted properties at least every 5 years.

The regulations apply to new tenancies from 1^st July 2020 and for existing tenancies from 1^st April 2021.

The new regulations mean:

• A landlord is required to obtain an inspection and test report from a qualified person, supply that report to each tenant within 28 days, and to the local housing authority within 7 days of a request. A copy must be retained until the next inspection is due.
• For new tenancies, the landlord must supply a copy of the last report to any new tenant before occupation, or any prospective tenant within 28 days of a request.
• If the report requires further investigative or remedial work, this must be carried out within 28 days or sooner if the report suggests. Written confirmation of the work being carried out by a qualified person must then be given to the tenant and the local authority.
• If a landlord is in breach of the regulations, the local authority can serve remedial notices, if necessary carry out the required works themselves recovering their costs from the landlord and can impose financial penalties of up to £30,000.

The full legislation and guidance can be found at legislation.gov.uk/ukdsi/2020/9780111191934.

Group Manager for Public Health and Regulatory Services, Simon Newcombe, said:

“We're very mindful of the potential harm from unsafe electrics in rented properties and we welcome this new legislation, not only to ensure the safety of tenants renting privately in Mid Devon, but as a way for landlords to maintain their assets through the frequent upkeep of their property’s electrics.

“The testing of every fixed electrical installation should have a limited impact on good professional landlords, many of whom we acknowledge, already voluntarily undertake these inspections.”

It is essential that landlords follow appropriate guidance relating to COVID-19 when carrying out their duties. More information can be found on the Council’s website by visiting middevon.gov.uk/COVID19LandlordsAndTenantsAdvice.