Electrical Safety Standards come into effect

Landlords must ensure that electrical installations are tested every five years

New Electrical Safety Standards will come into effect on July 1st 2020, applying to all new tenancies in England, before being extended to all properties from April 1st 2021.

Under the new rules, landlords must ensure that electrical safety standards are met when a property is occupied. They will also be required to ensure that every fixed electrical installation at the property is inspected and tested every five years by an electrician.

Following a successful inspection, landlords must obtain a report that includes the results and date of the inspection along with the date of the next inspection. This report must then be supplied to each tenant within 28 days. New tenants should be presented with a copy of the report before moving in.

If an inspection or test requires a landlord to carry out improvements, this must be completed by a qualified person within 28 days. Landlords must then seek written confirmation that the work carried out means electrical safety standards have been met.

Stephen Ludlow, Chairman at ludlowthompson says: “We welcome this new legislation which will give protection to tenants who can rest assured that their home meets the Government’s safety standards.”

“The vast majority of landlords in our experience, are already extremely proactive in ensuring that their properties are safe, but this will give tenants extra reassurance.”

“The new law will also help landlords ensure that they are aware of any risks and liabilities to their properties, enabling them to quickly rectify these.”

“Landlords, who are long term investors, will benefit from additional barriers to entry to the sector. Capital appreciation coupled with cheap finance for those that stand up to due diligence will help drive long-term growth, particularly as high demand outweighs supply of rental stock.”

Ludlowthompson’s letting agents are continuing to offer prospective renters and buyers guided video tours of properties. In person viewing appointments complying with social distancing policies are available following virtual viewings.

This week’s video tour is a two bedroom townhouse in Cambria Road, SE5

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