From the 1 April 2021, it will be a requirement for all Landlords with rented properties, new and existing, to conduct an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).
This means that landlords must ensure they have an EICR performed for all their properties in England by this date, and then serve the tenants with a copy of the report within 28 days.
What does an EICR do?
An EICR ensures that all electrical installations in your property, such as light fixtures and electrical sockets, are safe for your tenant. If work is recommended in the report, then it must be performed.
Properties that pass the EICR will keep the certification for five (5) years. The standards that should be met are set out in the 18th edition of the Wiring Regulations.
What if your property fails the checks?
If your property fails the check, recommended actions will be provided in a report which will outline what repairs should be undertaken to ensure the safety of the property. These repairs must be made by a qualified person (e.g. an electrician) within 28 days, unless the report specifies the work must be performed sooner.
The qualified electrician must then provide the landlord with written confirmation, either that the safety standards are now met, or that further work is required. This written confirmation must then be supplied to the tenant within 28 days of the initial work being completed and must also be provided, along with a copy of the original report to the local housing authority within 28 days of the further work.
What are the penalties of not having an EICR?
Landlords who fail to conduct an EICR (and any work it recommends) before 1 April 2021 can face a fine of up to £30,000. Local authorities will be responsible for enforcing the new rules, as specified under the Housing Act 2004.
Local authorities can also arrange remedial action if repairs and improvements recommended in the reports are not made. After receiving a notice of remedial action, landlords will have 28 days to have the work undertaken, unless it is an urgent notice. A shorter timeframe may be given in this case.
Can you refer a qualified electrician to help me?
Yes. If you need help or advice our electrical team is on standby to assist.
Why not use the first quarter of the year, January- March 2021, to prepare in advance and update the EICR using our qualified electrician.
Ensure all your rented properties are compliant with the standards required.
Call us direct on + 44 (0) 207 993 4081 or simply send an email for a fast response.
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