New requirements for mandatory electrical safety checks. Guide for landlords – What landlords need to be aware of from July 2020

SOR Electrical wanted to inform you of the new government legislation related to mandatory electrical safety checks for landlords, that has come into affect since 1st July 2020.

If you own any rental properties then this directly effects you.

From 1 July 2020, all new private tenancies in England will need to ensure that electrical installations are inspected and tested by a qualified person before the tenancy begins.

The landlord will then need to ensure that the installation is visually inspected annually after initial inspection or at change of tenancy which ever is sooner.

The properties will require to be inspected and tested at least every five years – and more often if the most recent safety report requires it.

Local authorities can impose a financial penalty of up to £30,000 for a breach of the regulations. Where there are multiple breaches, the local authority can impose multiple penalties.

Electrical safety reports

Once the electrical installation has been tested, the landlord must:

  • Ensure they receive a written report from the person conducting the inspection, which includes the results and the required date for the next inspection
  • Supply a copy of this report to each existing tenant living in the property within 28 days of the inspection
  • Supply a copy within seven days to the local authority, if they request a copy
  • Keep a copy of the report until the next inspection, and give a copy to the person undertaking the next inspection.

For new tenancies, the landlord must:

  • Give a copy of the most recent report to a new tenant before the tenant occupies the property
  • Give a copy of the most recent report to any prospective new tenant who requests the report in writing, within 28 days of receiving such a request.

SOR Electrical hope you find this information useful. If you require any further advice regarding these new laws and wish to have a chat about it please feel free to give us a call 0800 321 3805 or 0208 935 5199 or send us a quick email: info@sorelectrical.com

SOR Electrical are more than happy to assist.

Business Address: 17a Park Road, Harlesden, North West London, NW10 8TA



Call: 0800 321 3805/0208 935 5199 | Email: info@sorelectrical.com