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Most Important Electrical Safety Regulations for Landlords

As a landlord in the UK, you are obligated to follow the new electrical safety regulations for your electrical installations.

From July 2020, the regulations will come into effect for new tenancies and for already existing tenancies from April 2021.

Those not complying will need to pay hefty fines or may find their insurance claims unacceptable.

It is recommended that landlords need to conduct a safety check every five years and get an Electrical Safety Certificate, also known as the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).

If they do not comply, tenants’ lives are put at risk due to compromise on the safety of their electrical installations.

The new rules have emerged after surveys pointed out that faulty electrical devices and wires cause most of the fires in the UK.

Through regular inspections, accidents caused by fire can be averted. With regular inspections, any wiring defects, faulty devices, or lack of earthing can be found out, and steps are taken to rectify them.

The EICR will make properties safer for tenants and landlords. Monetary loss and damage to property, as well as physical injury, can be prevented by conducting periodic electrical safety checks.

The rules to be observed by landlords for electrical safety

As a landlord, you need to keep in mind the following regulations:

  • All electrical devices and installations at your property must be in good working condition at the beginning of a tenancy and be safe for use during the entire tenancy period
  • The qualified electrician should check all wiring, sockets, light fixture, fuse boxes and permanently fixed appliances in the property
  • You need to obtain an EICR once in every five years from a qualified electrician. Only a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) is legally obligated to conduct an electrical check
  • Devices like cookers, kettles, and others, provided to tenants, must have the CE marking and must be safe for use
  • An Electrical Safety Certificate will be given on successful completion of the safety test. The certificate can be retained for five years, and at the expiry of the period, you must get a new one
  • You need to get a smoke alarm installed at every floor of your property. The alarm must be in working condition at the start of the tenancy. Each room which has an open wood fire must have a carbon monoxide alarm installed
  • The tenant needs to be handed a copy of the certificate before he occupies the property
  • The tenant must be handed the certificate’s copy within 28 days after the test is conducted
  • You need to keep ready a copy of the certificate to be given to local authorities on demand
  • The tenant must be handed a copy within 28 days if he makes a requests
  • You must have a ready copy to be presented to the next electrician carrying the test

Steps to be taken after getting EICR

The landlord is obligated to take the following actions after getting the Electrical Safety Certificate:

  • If faults were found during the inspection, the landlord needs to get them rectified by a skilled electrician within 28 days of the findings
  • The landlord has to get a written confirmation stating that the needed repairs have been done
  • The tenant has to be given a duplicate of this confirmation with 28 days of the repairs

What the local authorities are authorized to do

The regulations give the local authorities the following rights:

  • The landlord should hand over a copy of the EICR to local authorities within seven days of their request
  • In case urgent repairs are required, the local authorities can notify the landlord. The landlord is obligated to do the needful within 28 days of the notice
  • In case of the landlord’s non-cooperation, the local authorities can themselves carry on the repairs and ask for reimbursement from the landlord
  • The local authorities can impose a penalty of £30000 if they can prove that the rules have been violated. For all succeeding violations, additional fines can be imposed

Some additional electrical safety recommendations

In addition to the above rules, these recommendations will ensure tenants are not at risk:

  • It would be advisable for tenants to report any electrical issues noticed by them at the property
  • The property should have proper RCD (Residual current device) protection
  • An EICR should be obtained before each new tenancy. In case of a short tenancy period, the landlord can conduct just a visual inspection
  • Always conduct the electrical test with the help of a qualified electrician even for minor jobs

The Electrical Safety Certificate ensures the tenant that the property is safe from the dangers posed by faulty electrical devices and wiring.

From the landlord’s point of view, the EICR will prevent him from paying hefty fines and suffering financial losses due to legal actions taken by a tenant.

What is an EPC & How to get EPC in London?

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is an authorized requirement for residential and commercial properties before you put up your property for rent or sell.

The Energy performance certificate will be added to the EPC Register online. This certificate is essentially a report of energy management. It confirms how energy efficient a residential building or commercial premises is.

With this certification, you get a detailed idea on your energy utilization and tips on saving them

With your EPC survey, you can abide by some energy saving tips, which can definitely save you a lot of money.

This will help you improve your energy efficiency scale. The ratings on a commercial EPC start from “G-least energy efficient”, going up to an “A for the most energy-efficient structure.”

The EPC shows the best of the energy efficiency levels and carbon dioxide releases of a building, by using an average table from A to G (A being very efficient, G being very inefficient).

London Property Certificates is a team of professionals who can quickly organise and carry out your domestic or commercial EPC under your pocket.

  • We are trusted by more than 1000 customers in London.
  • No Payment Until Full Survey. Get EPC London hassle-free.

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What happens during an EPC assessment?

Electrician-inspection-for-epc-london

First of all, the energy survey is conducted by a qualified energy assessor. He examines the critical items within the property such as domestic boiler, loft insulation, radiators, hot water tank, windows for double glazing, etc.

Once he collects the data, he uploads them on a software -program which calculates the level of energy efficiency.

There is a similar report which delivers figures on the conservation impact.
This report shows a table of projected energy bills per annum and the probable for improved and lowers fuel costs, but without any location to the actual householder energy bills.

5 Steps to get an EPC in London

If you are planning to give your property on renting or selling in London, you must acquire an Energy Performance Certificate to go ahead.

This rule has been set up in the April-2018 as per change in legislation. The process of getting EPC in London is straightforward:
Step 1: Get in touch with the EPC team in London. You need to check if your property requires an EPC in London. Not every property require this certification.

Step 2: Book online or find a team member of EPC. They will send professional and experienced assessors who will visit your property.
Step 3: Make sure you are present when the assessor assesses the building. Support him when he takes pictures of your property to attach them with their report. You must answer the required questions to him. The larger the building, the longer the report. However, the assessment can be completed in an hour.

Step 4: Get an estimate of the energy performance certificate cost from the assessor. Check if it meets your budget. To let you know, different assessors offer different cost estimates. So, you can get your building assessed by more than one professional.

Step 5: You can then find out the EPC certificate on the registered website of EPC.

Free Consultation with UKO

Why do you need an EPC in London?

Property Owners and Landlords in London are required to provide EPC’s to any prospective tenant or buyer when they rent or sell and lease a Commercial or Residential Property.

Cost of Energy Performance Certificates

Cost-of-epc-london

EPC cost varies on three important factors:

  • Residential or commercial area
  • Size of the place
  • Layout

The estimate of the cost of EPC is as follows:

Domestic EPC Cost: 

  • 1 Bedroom £45
  •  Up to £65 for a 6 bedroom area.

Commercial EPC Cost: 

  • £180 for Warehouses
  • £130 for Small Shops
  • £150 and more for offices based on area and storey

The EPC cost for Hotels can be slightly higher than above as they different zones and en-suite bathrooms add to the cost too. Amongst all of the properties stated above, warehouses and open office plan are cheaper.

Validity and Law Of Energy Performance Certificates

validity-of-epc-london

If you have already made this report, then there is no need to create a new EPC report for every new client or renter.

Once the EPC certificate is issued, it is valid for the next ten years, and you can present it to anyone who is interested in your property.

After ten years, you will have to set up an additional inspection of the New property. If any changed done with the property within this validity time, then a new report or an updated EPC will be required to go.

The owner or landlord of the property holds this accountability and is obliged by law to ensure the certificate update.

The building cannot be listed for letting or sale without the certificate if it falls under the category of EPC listed buildings.

In case an agent has been tasked to market the property/building, they must include a copy of the reports document in all commercial media such as a brochure, websites, written materials they produce.

Any changes like increase or decrease in the energy requirements of the property, you must get a new survey conducted.

The same situations also apply as when a new building developed. The builder in charge of the construction is responsible for the establishment of an original certificate.

If you do not get a certificate for your property/building, you can be charged with a hefty fine.

The Department of Finance governs the enforcement of energy, and it can directly impact the bills and of your property.

Hence, it is recommended that you always take energy improvement suggestions seriously.

If you are asked to produce the documentation or EPC by an inspector and fail to do so, then you will receive a penalty charge notice and defined action.

The approximate fine for a home is £500, and for the other properties, it may go up to £4000. So, avoid the penalty and invest in the energy performance certificate cost for better energy utilities.

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New EICR Rules – Electrical Checks Become Mandatory

As per the new EICR rules, from 1st July 2020 onwards, landlords in England are required to get an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) before letting their properties to new tenants.

From 1st April 2021, the rule will apply to all existing tenancies in England. This implies that landlords are obligated to make their properties safe for tenants to use by maintaining and repairing their electrical installations.

Earlier, it was not compulsory to carry out such electrical checks in England. These rules have come into effect, considering that faulty electrical wiring and devices are the most common causes of fires in England.

By regular inspections, faults in the appliances or wiring can be unearthed, like any device consuming excess current, insufficient earthing, or damaged wires. These checks will enable landlords to take corrective measures and maintain the safety of the electrical equipment.

It will help to prevent damage to property and financial losses, as well as prevent injuries to the house inmates. The electrical safety certificate aims to make properties safe for both tenants and landlords.

New Rules to be Observed by Landlords

Here are some new rules which must be duly obliged by all the landlords across England:

  • Get a qualified electrician to conduct an electrical inspection that covers all wiring and devices
  • Get an electrical safety certificate that contains the test details along with the next inspection date
  • Landlords passing the tests can retain the certificate for five years, and when it expires, they will need to get a new one
  • The landlord has to hand over a copy of the certificate to the existing tenant within 28 days following the inspection
  • He should provide a copy to a new tenant before the occupation
  • He should keep a copy with himself so that he can provide the local authority within seven days of the request
  • Keep ready a copy to be given to the next engineer who comes to inspect and renew the certificate
  • If a prospective tenant requests a copy of the certificate, he must be given within 28 days of the written request

What will the engineer check?

The engineer will check the fixed electrical components of the property, including the wiring, plug sockets, light fixtures, and the fuse box. Permanently installed electrical devices will also be inspected.

Points to Remember While Assigning an Inspection

  • You should verify if the inspector is a member of a competent person scheme
  • Ask the engineer to sign a checklist, which state his experience, insurance details, and qualification meeting the latest Wiring regulations

What will the engineer look for?

The engineer conducting the inspection will locate the following:

  • Any overloaded electrical installations
  • Any faulty electrical work
  • He will see if there is proper earthing or bonding
  • Potential dangers of electrical shocks or fire

What will be displayed in the electrical installation condition report?

If there are no repairs needed, the landlord is not required to take any corrective steps. If remedial action is needed, the report will contain the following classification codes:

  • Code1 (C1): It indicates danger or risk of injury
  • Code 2 (C2): It signifies potentially hazardous
  • Further investigations (F1): It indicates that further probing is required urgently
  • Code 3 (C3): It means no additional work is needed, but improvement is recommended

In the case of codes C1 and C2, corrective steps are required, and the electrical installations are not deemed suitable for continuous use

In the case of F1, further probing is needed and the landlord must carry on the actions required

For C3, no corrective steps are required, but the landlord could make some improvements to enhance the safety of his electrical installations.

What the local authorities are empowered to do

  • When demanded by local authorities, the tenant must provide a copy of the electrical safety certificate
  • If urgent repairs are required, the local authorities send a notice. The landlord is required to complete the repairs within 28 days
  • In case the landlord does not carry out the repairs, the local authorities can enter the property, conduct the repairs, and demand compensation for repairs from the landlord
  • If the landlord fails to comply, and if the local authorities have the required proof, they can impose a penalty up to £30,000. They can increase the fine if more violations occur

Implications of not having an electrical installation condition report

Landlords failing to get an electrical installation condition report from 1st July 2020 onwards will have to pay a fine of up to £30,000. These rules, laid down by the Housing Act, 2004, will be implemented by local authorities.

Landlords are also obligated to carry out remedial measures based on the report’s recommendations. They are given 28 days to carry out the corrective action, and if more urgent, even earlier.

The objective of the new EICR rules is to make all rented properties safe for tenants and minimize the risk of fires and damage to human life and property.

It is in the best interests of landlords to get an electrical safety certificate every five years. It will also help landlords avoid any legal disputes with tenants following accidents or damage due to fires. It will ensure safety and peace of mind for both tenants and landlords.

A Detailed Guide for PAT Certificate

Faults in electrical wiring and devices cause most of the fires in London. These fires cause extensive damage to property and result in physical harm to humans.

To prevent this from happening, landlords must check their electrical appliances and wiring every five years for defects. If any faults are found, they must get them rectified so that the property becomes safe for the tenants to live.

Every landlord must conduct a PAT (Portable Appliance Testing), which is an inspection of some of the electrical appliances to ensure they are safe to use. All appliances that are provided to tenants for use, such as washing machines, cookers, etc. need to be tested.

A PAT test certificate for landlords is the document given after the testing of appliances is conducted. It displays which devices are in good working condition and which need repairs.

The certificate is proof that the landlord has taken his responsibility seriously, has checked the appliances and that they are being maintained well. PAT testing involves both visually checking devices, as well as conducting electrical checks.

PAT testing enables the landlord to find out any possible defects in the equipment that can then be repaired. The testing is done using equipment known as a PAT tester.

What is Displayed on a PAT certificate?

The tested appliances will bear a sticker that will show whether they have passed or failed the inspection. Any device that has passed is considered to be safe until the next testing is done at a future date. These are the details shown on a PAT certificate:

  • The date scheduled for the next testing
  • The site where the testing took place
  • Information regarding which devices failed or passed the inspection
  • Details of the person or company which has conducted the checking

Is the PAT test certificate compulsory?

PAT test certificate for landlords is a legal obligation, but as per the UK legislations, landlords need to ensure that all electrical devices in their property are free from causing danger.

All businesses need to ensure the safety of their electrical appliances for employees, as well as the public. For potentially high-risk environments, PAT testing is a reliable method to ensure safety.

If landlords or businesspeople fail to ensure the safety of their electrical appliances, they may have to face imprisonment or a stiff penalty as per the seriousness of the situation.

What appliances need to be tested?

The PAT test certificate for landlords is obtained following the inspection of portable appliances.

A portable device is meant to denote any appliance that has a plug that can be connected to a wall outlet. Electrical appliances are divided into three classes based on the level of risk attached to them. These are the three classes of devices:

  1. Class 1: These devices consist of only essential insulation, and they are connected to the earth for protection. Some of the appliances that fall into this category are photocopiers, personal computers, refrigerators, washing machines, industrial machinery, etc.
  2. Class 2: They have more insulation and are dependent on the earth for protection. That makes them safer for use. Examples of this category are food mixers, lawn movers, drills, and desktop printers
  3. Class 3: These are the most reliable devices since they use only low voltage, but their charging leads may require testing. Smartphone chargers and laptops are examples of this type

New appliances need not undergo PAT testing by they can be visually inspected to ensure their safety.

How frequently should appliances be PAT tested?

There are no guidelines set up for the frequency of testing, but the testing should be done based on the level of risk in the working environment and the category to which the appliance belongs.

Some other factors that are needed to be considered are the frequency of usage of the equipment, its age, and any alterations or repairs are done to the appliance. Devices that are constantly used, such as those applied in construction need to be tested regularly.

Assessing the risk level of an appliance in an environment: 

  • In places like shops or offices, there is no special equipment which in use, and most of the appliances are fixed and barely moved. So chances of damage to these devices are less, and so these environments are low-risk.
  • In industrial environments, such as factories, various types of equipment are moved constantly and used. Thus, there is more risk of these appliances causing harm.
  • In places where the public uses equipment frequently, such as gyms, it is not easy to monitor the appliances. These items are likely to get damaged and are therefore classified as high-risk.
  • Environments, such as construction sites where equipment is used and constantly moved, are classified as extremely high-risk.
  • In places like hospitals where diagnostic and other equipment are frequently used and also moved from place to place, there is a risk of damage by misuse or wear and tear.

Who can conduct a PAT testing?

A person who can conduct a PAT testing needs to possess the relevant skills and experience required for such checking. For environments where the risk is low, just doing a visual check of the devices by a competent person is sufficient.

For high-risk environments, such as construction sites or industrial buildings, only a qualified electrical engineer should conduct the inspection.

He will need proper equipment and skills to carry the testing, and he should also be able to understand and analyze the results of the testing done. The person should be aware of the risks involved while conducting an inspection.

He should know how to conduct visual checking, as well as in-depth electrical testing. A suitably qualified person should be able to finish the inspection quicker than an incompetent one.

The time taken to conduct a test will depend on the number of rooms to be checked and the number of devices to be tested. If someone wants to conduct his own PAT testing, he can take a PAT testing course to get the necessary skills and also buy PAT testing equipment.

The qualified person who conducts the testing will first inspect the devices visually for signs of any damage. He will check the earthing for the devices and also inspect them to find out if any of them are using up more voltage than required.

He will find out what repairs are needed to rectify the faults found and what parts are needed to be replaced.

PAT Certificate Cost

The PAT certificate cost is not fixed and varies according to the type of devices tested and the quantity involved.

The usual pricing for PAT testing is 1 to 2 pounds per device tested. All PAT testing companies follow their pricing system, and the PAT certificate cost is not the same for all of them.

Some firms may charge lesser per appliance tested if they are testing a large number of equipment at a single time. Another company may charge more per appliance if it is providing some extra services.

Such firms may not only conduct the test and point out the faults of the devices but may also offer to carry repairs to rectify the problems.

It is an essential document that must be obtained since it ensures peace of mind to both the tenants, as well as the landlord.

They get an assurance that the property is safe to be moved in and there is no possibility of danger from fires caused by faulty appliances or electrical wiring. It is like conducting an audit that will help in the analysis if something goes wrong.

It is the responsibility of a landlord to ensure all appliances are safe at the beginning of the tenancy period and also throughout the entire tenancy.

The landlord also gets a proof in the form of the PAT certificate that shows he has not been negligent and has maintained his electrical devices properly.

The PAT test certificate for landlords will also help to reduce the number of accidents caused by fires in properties where the equipment have been faulty or not suitably maintained. It will also help to maintain the reputation of the landlord.

The landlord is also protected from insurance or other damage claims made by tenants in the event of a mishap and can produce his PAT certificate as proof that he has complied with the regulations.

Guide To Mandatory Electrical Safety Regulations To Be Introduced In England

In early January 2020, ‘The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020’ were proposed in Parliament. The new regulations will be effective from July 2020 for new tenancies and from April 2021 for tenancies that already exist. Presently, landlords are not required to compulsorily provide an Electrical certificate or Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every five years. As per the latest regulations, landlords have to maintain the electrical installations in good condition so that they are safe for tenants to use.

In England, the most common reason for fires is faulty electrical wiring and appliances. Such accidents result in a lot of damage to humans, as well as property. It also results in unnecessary financial losses, along with mental stress. All this can be prevented if landlords conduct regular inspections of their electrical fittings every five years to ensure they are safe for use by tenants. Regular inspections help to discover the faults in wiring or appliances, such as damaged wires or appliances that use too much current. If defects are found out, landlords can take remedial action and undertake the necessary repairs to ensure the safety of their property.

The new regulations that are proposed to be implemented from July 2020 aim to reduce the incidents of accidents due to fires in properties. The rules will help the properties to maintain a better standard of safety and will minimize the losses due to damage caused by accidental fires. The landlord gas and safety certificates will ensure safety for both tenants as well as the landlords.

About the new rules

The new rules state that private landlords and agents must get all electrical fittings and appliances checked and tested every five years by a qualified electrician at their property. This is to be done regardless of whether the property is occupied or not. An electrical certificate for landlords also has to be obtained. The new regulations apply to those residential tenancies which have not been listed as an excluded tenancy and which tenants can occupy partly or fully as their primary residence and for which they pay rent.

The new rules state that the Landlords must do the following:

  • Conduct an inspection of the wiring and electrical appliances in their properties by a qualified person in compliance with the wiring regulations
  • Obtain a report from the electrician which will contain the results of the checking and scheduled date for the next inspection
  • Provide a copy of the latest report to the existing tenant within 28 days
  • Provide a copy of the last report to a prospective tenant by 28 days
  • A new tenant must be given a copy of the last report before their occupation
  • A person who is about to conduct the next inspection should be provided a copy of the report

Action to be taken after getting an electrical certificate

If the electrical certificate has mentioned any faults found in the wiring or appliances, the landlord is obligated to get necessary repairs done by a qualified electrician within 28 days after the inspection. The landlord must also obtain a written confirmation stating that the rules have been complied with, and repairs have been carried out. A copy of this confirmation has to be given to the present tenant within 28 days of the repair work carried out.

Role of the local authorities

As per the new regulations, local housing authorities have the right to ensure that the rules are being followed, and they have also been empowered to undertake remedial steps.

These are the new powers given to the local authorities:

  • If the local authorities request, then the landlords must provide a copy of the report within seven days
  • The local authorities can serve a notice to the landlord if urgent repair works are needed. The landlord has to conduct repairs within 28 days of receiving the notice.
  • In case the necessary repairs are not done by the landlord, the local authorities can access the property and conduct the repairs themselves. They can then reclaim the cost of repairs from the landlord
  • If the local authorities are able to prove that the regulations have not been complied with, they can impose a fine of £30,000. They also have the right to impose multiple penalties for all further violations of the regulations.

New energy efficiency standards from April 2020:

  • By April 2020, landlords must improve their energy efficiency ratings of their rented properties to at least Band E if currently, they are banded ratings of F or G and if their tenancy commenced before 1st April 2018 and lasts up to 1st April 2020.
  • Landlords have to spend a maximum of £3,500 on enhancing the energy efficiency of their property.

The deadline for the imposition of the new regulations, along with the proposed fine of £30,000, will ensure that landlords will conduct electrical safety inspections of their properties at the earliest. In this way, they will ensure compliance with the new rules. It will also ensure that the properties are safe both for the landlords, as well as the tenants.

Electrical Safety Recommendations for Commercial Properties

It is almost a difficult task to manage a commercial building. The landlord bears the responsibility for the safety of the occupants. Although, he makes massive money by putting his commercial building on rent, yet he always faces the risk of being blamed in case of any unfortunate accident in the building. He needs to be responsible enough to take the required steps to ensure the safety of the occupants. 

Many aspects require the attention of a landlord. But electrical safety is the most significant thing. Because of any electrical hazard, problems like electrocution and fire can occur. Due to electrical mishaps, many accidents have taken place to date. Although electricity has made our life very comfortable, there are many risks associated with it. 

Top 7 Recommendations for Electrical Safety Which Every Landlord Must Follow

Below given are some electrical safety recommendations to which every landlord needs to pay attention:

  • Relevant certificates: Certificates are essential in any business. They assure the potential client about the authenticity of the claims of the company. The same goes for a commercial building. A landlord is earning money by renting his commercial building. So he needs to convince the potential clients about the safety level of the building. Just oral negotiation is not enough. 
  • You are a landlord; then, you must possess all the required certificates and documents. Paperwork is essential. The critical documents will ensure that potential clients get convinced to invest in your property. The most crucial document is the electrical safety certificate for landlords. This document will help in declaring your property completely safe. It can also be beneficial in showing that the property is energy efficient. It is vital to protect and safeguard all the essential documents and certificates. If there is any compulsion, then you have to display the certificates too. 
  • Regularity in inspection: A commercial building needs inspection on a regular basis. Regular inspections bring up the risk of electrical hazards. This allows a landlord to fix the problem in advance. Thus, routine inspection protects a commercial building from extreme damage.
  • If a landlord fixes the problem in the initial stage, then he can save a lot of money. For regular inspections, a landlord must take the help of a well-trained electrician only. Only they will be able to identify the risk and fix the problem professionally. 
  • Emergency lighting set up: It is essential to understand that an emergency lighting set up is of utmost importance for a commercial building’s safety. If there ever comes an emergency situation, the emergency lighting will ensure that the residents of the commercial building can evacuate the building safely. Emergency lighting set up makes the escape route visible. There will be no hassle during an emergency evacuation. No one will stumble on another person. Hence, emergency lighting is essential.
  • PAT testing: PAT testing is a legal requirement which the landlords have to abide by. This test ensures that electrical appliances are safe for use. Appliances like a kettle, dishwashers, washing machines, as well as commercial items like laptops, photocopy machines, lighting fixtures, etc. all come under the category of PAT testing. A landlord must not ignore the PAT test at any cost.
  • Acknowledging the seasonal risks: It is incredibly significant to have a knowledge of the seasonal electrical hazards. You can take precautionary measures accordingly. For instance, hot weather requires the usage of electric fans, while one needs room heaters during harsh, cold weather. Although these appliances make life very easy and comfortable, yet they have some or the other risks associated with them. One needs to be aware of the seasonal electric hazards and take precautionary steps accordingly. 
  • Fire hazards: There have been many cases of significant fire in commercial buildings. And the reason behind these fire has been mostly a minor short-circuit in the electrical appliance. Undoubtedly, electrical appliances have made our life much more comfortable. But, one needs to be very careful while using them.
  • Smoke Detectors in Buildings: The landlord must make sure that smoke detectors are installed in the building. There should be an effective alarm system that can make habitants aware of any fire mishap. Such an alarm system is necessary for handling emergencies efficiently. It gives people time to evacuate the building before it is too late. 

If a landlord takes care of the above-given points, then he can at least assure and protect his occupants from any electrical hazard. Managing a commercial building is not easy. One needs to be always aware and updated about all the risks. However, by taking precautionary measures, many significant accidents can be prevented. 

Legal strictness and moral obligation both should force a landlord to follow the above-given tips. Then only, he will be able to save the lives of his occupants and also his commercial building from any electrical mishap.

All You Need to Know About Gas Safety Certificate

All landlords in the UK are required legally, under the Gas Safety Regulations 1998, to get their gas fittings and all appliances checked by a registered engineer who is authorized to carry such an examination and provide a gas safety certificate.

After inspection, the engineer will enter all the details of what he has checked on a Landlord Gas Safety Record Form. This form is also called the Gas Compliance Certificate or CP12 certificate. The engineer will provide copies of the certificate for both the landlord as well as tenants.

The certificate was made legally necessary to avoid gas explosions. Flue emissions and carbon monoxide poisoning were also kept in mind during legalization.

The certificate was essential to prevent damage to property, and to protect human life as the accidents related to gas leaks can be fatal. Most of the accidents that happen are due to faults in the fittings and appliances that are easily preventable.

During a gas safety check, the engineer may come across issues like a faulty flue or a damaged pipe, which can be rectified by conducting necessary repairs. In this way, all such potential dangers can be taken care of, and accidents can be prevented.

Is the Annual Gas Safety Certificate Compulsory?

Landlords are legally obliged to ensure that all gas fittings, appliances, etc. are free from danger and safe for their tenant’s usage.

Getting the check done by a qualified engineer and obtaining the certificate is mandatory annually even if the tenant is not going to use the gas connection. The rule is to carry out checking if there is a live supply of gas to property.

Benefits for the landlord: A thorough check by a certified engineer and obtaining an annual Gas Safety Certificate will protect the landlord from getting blamed for any accidents that may occur.

He will also be able to avoid financial losses due to any suit filed against him.

Benefits for the tenant: For the tenant, the gas certificate London will be an assurance that he can stay without having to continually worry about the danger of mishaps due to faulty gas fittings.

How often should the landlord gas safety check be carried out?

If you are a tenant, you need to carry out a Gas safety check once every year. If you have just recently had one, then the next examination should be done within twelve months.It is also mandatory to get the gas certificate done every time the property is rented.

The procedure for obtaining a gas compliance certificate:

For getting a certification, you have first to select a registered engineer who is qualified to carry the check.Then you can book an appointment with him. The engineer will make a thorough inspection of all gas fittings and appliances in your home.He will also examine the pipes for detecting any leakages and ensure that they are in optimum condition.

Who is a registered engineer?

Not all gas engineers are qualified to carry out gas safety checks. Before getting your gas fittings checked, you need to check the Gas Safe Register, which has a list of all the people authorized to conduct safety checks.

A licensed gas engineer who is on the list will possess a Gas Safe ID card. So the first thing you need to do before the inspection is to verify the ID card of the engineer to ensure that he is adequately qualified.

After checking all the appliances and fittings, the engineer will hand you a copy of the Gas Safety Record Form that will contain the result of the check conducted.

You are also obliged to give a copy of the certificate to your tenant. For those tenants who are just about to move into a house, they need to get their copy before moving.

For those tenants already staying at a property, they need to get their copy within 28 days after the gas safety check.

Details to be present on a Gas Safety Certificate:

The Gas Compliance Certificate or Gas Safety record form should contain the following information:

  • The date of the gas safety check.
  • The address of the house or property on which the check was carried out.
  • Details and the location of the appliances and flues on which the checks were conducted,
  • Details of the landlord or agent, such as name and address.
  • The name of the engineer who conducted the check, along with the registration number and signature.
  • It should contain any fault found by the engineer during checking, and any step that has been taken to rectify it. It must also include any action that is needed to be made.
  • A confirmation that the Gas Safety Check has been conducted on all the appliances and fittings.

The cost of obtaining the Annual Gas Safety Certificate:

The price depends on factors like the number of appliances checked and the engineer appointed.

In your best interests, it is better to first obtain quotations from the gas companies for you to compare.

You can choose the one that is the ideal one for you. The cost of a certificate starts from 35 pounds and may even go up to 150 pounds.

If you are a landlord having a property that you have rented out to some tenants, it is legally required for you to get a Gas Safety Certificate by getting a safety check done every twelve months.

The certificate will be a guarantee that all gas pipes, all appliances, and fittings are safe for use and are not capable of causing explosions or fires due to faults or leakages.

The safety certificate will benefit you and your family by not allowing financial losses due to property damage, and also prevent from physical harm.

It will also help to avoid any legal hassles that may happen as a result of any untoward incidents that may take place.

Boiler Gas Safety Certificate

It would also be beneficial if you have smoke alarms at your property along with carbon monoxide alarms. You should also get all your new appliances, or boilers checked to ensure that they are compliant with the proper gas safety body.

The tenant also receives the same benefits as you, and he can have a peaceful stay at your property, free from worries of accidents.

So remind yourself to conduct an annual gas safety certificate of all your gas fittings and appliances every twelve months by an authorized engineer.

Gas certificate London ensures that your house is safe from accidents for yourself and your family.

How Much Does an Electrical Safety Certificate Cost?

While electricity is the basis for a majority of comfort we enjoy at our home, it can also be a problem if proper precautions aren’t taken.

Electricity safety of any house is vital no matter whether you are in a rented home or rented out a house. A little bit of negligence and it could hurt you a lot in terms of physical damages and money.

What Is an Electrical Safety Certificate?

Regular maintenance of the electrical connections is required to keep the electrical systems safe.

An electricity safety certificate ensures that there are no issues with the wiring and certifies that the house or the commercial space is safe to use. Every residential property or commercial space must have its electrical safety certification and it is equally important to have an Energy Performance Certificate in London before selling or renting a property. 

The electrician, after checking all the electrical wirings and connections, will issue a certificate stating that the electrical system of the house is in working condition and most importantly, is not a hazard.

This should be conducted by the landlords as well as the tenants.

  • The landlords should ensure all the sockets, wirings, switches and any other electrical connections are safe to use. 
  • The landlords should conduct this test for electrical safety certification every five years or when a new tenant is moving in (whichever comes first).
  • Homeowners who are relocating to a place that is old or new should get the domestic electrical installation certificate.
  • Landlords who are renting out a new place for the first time should get the electrical installation certificate which certifies that all the new connections given are safe and the place is secure to inhabit.

Checks Carried Out Under Electrical Installation Certificate

An electrical installation certificate will inspect the electrical connections and give peace of mind to the new tenants that the brand-new electrical connections are safe.

Here are the things that will be checked for any commercial or domestic electrical installation certificate.

  • Check the fuse boards or consumer unit
  • Check the electrical circuits or any equipment fitted for overloading
  • Ensure the earthing is done properly
  • Check the electrical fittings used like light fixtures, sockets, switches, etc.
  • Clarify the consistency in the connection in terms of polarities
  • Ensure that the protective device is working
  • Check if the connections are not susceptible to wear and tear any time soon

The Contents of the Electrical Safety Certificate

The electrical safety certificate consists of the electrical contractor, their registered license number, the details about the electrician conducting the inspection.

The electrician will fill out all the information about the condition of the electrical system in the place, any suggestions to better the system and any other relevant details.

It will also contain the address of the location where it is carried out and the details about the customer. The electrician, after filling out the details, will sign the form along with the date.

What Is Expected Out of Landlords?

In Scotland, all the private landlords should ensure legally that their electrical systems are completely safe.

They have the schedule an electrical safety check once every five years and get the electrical safety certificate for any houses or property they own.

Now, the plans are in line to implement the same in the UK. The government is now working on preparing legislation to bring a regulation for all residential spaces to get the electrical safety certificate. 

When the Electrical Connections Are Faulty

Apart from scheduling the checks for the electrical safety certificate, the landlords should also take steps to ensure that the connections are secure.

If not, there are chances of getting denied an electrical safety certificate aside from the hefty fines and regulations to adhere.

If the electrical installations are not up to the mark, then the landlords would have to pay a fine of £5,000, or face six months of imprisonment and get their property insurance revoked.

Also, if there are any severe physical casualties or death due to such faulty electrical connections, then the landlord could face criminal charges.

Things to Do to Keep the Electrical Systems Secure

  • Landlords should carry out regular electrical inspections of the installations and connections.
  • Make sure to hire only registered electricians for the job.
  • Any broken sockets, plugs or worn out wires should be immediately rectified.
  • Install Residual Current Device (RCD) which is a protective system against fatal electrical shocks and avoid any catastrophic results.
  • Once the new tenants move in, please give them the information about where the fuses are, the safety devices used and so on.
  • Replace the electrical fittings used before it gets affected by the wear and tear.

How Much Does the Electrical Installation Report Cost?

The electrical installation report cost differs depending on the size of the houses. It should be conducted only by certified electricians from companies which are recognized to provide the electrical installation report.

For an average home, a certified electrician will charge £100 or so for an hour.

This electrical installation report cost will increase for larger places. The certified electrician will self-certify the report and issue you the electrical installation certificate if your electrical connections are healthy and secure.

In case the electrician is not certified, they cannot self-certify the report. The building control should be informed and they will issue you a certificate for which one needs to pay about £300.

There are two types of electrical installation works done for which you need to get certified.

Prescribed electrical installation work involves working on the major section of the electrical system like the wiring, switchboards and so on.

The certified electrician will check the entire connection and issue an electrical installation certificate.

Non-prescribed electrical work includes minor jobs like changing sockets, installing new plugs, replacing switches, lightings, power points and so on.

For the certificate, the electrician will check the minor works done and issue it.

Based on the type of installation work, the cost of the electrical installation report cost will vary.

The landlord electrical safety certification cost is around £100 to £350 depending on the size of our home as the electrician may take about 2 to 4 hours to complete the full inspection.

Average Domestic Electrical Installation Certificate Cost

Here are some approximate costs for domestic electrical installation certificate for a property that has less than 10 circuit or fuse boards.

These charges are based on the current average rates charged by a certified electrician and it can vary based on the agency you hire from.

  • For a one-bedroom flat, it is £100 to £200.
  • For a two-bedroom flat, it is £150 to £250.
  • For a three-bedroom flat, it is £200 to £300.
  • For anything higher, it is £250 and more.

For electrical safety certificate commercial property, the cost may anywhere be between £250 to £800 or more depending on the size of the property and the electrical equipment they use. 

The landlords must make sure to get a copy of the electrical safety certificate even if it is the tenant who has got the electrical safety certificate.

The local authority may come and check it any time and therefore, it is vital to get a new safety it’s going to be five years.

The cost one spends on the electrical installation certificate can also vary depending on the company from which the electrician is and if the electrician is certified or not. 

 

London Property Certificates is a leading company that specializes in checking and providing the electrical safety certificate.

They have verified electricians who have more than ten years of experience and are capable of self-certifying the report.

They provide fast service wherein they attend to emergency electrical situations in a very short time and helps to uphold the high safety standards.

If you are looking for an affordable and reliable company to get your electrical safety certificate done, then call immediately to 02037196970 and book an appointment.