We bring to the attention of Landlords that the Government has announced ‘The Electrical Safety Standards’ in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020.

Subject to approval by both Houses of Parliament, new legislation will require that Landlords and Agents have electrical safety inspections carried out by a qualified electrician for all new tenancies in England from 1 July 2020 or from 1 April 2021 for existing tenancies.

The Regulations require Landlords to ensure that every fixed electrical installation is inspected and tested at regular intervals. This means that it should be tested by the date recommended by the qualified person on the most recent report up to a maximum of five years.

• The Landlord or Agent must supply a copy of any new report within 28 days of the inspection to each Tenant of the property.
• A copy of the most recent report must be supplied by the Landlord or Agent to any new Tenant before occupation.
• A copy of the most recent report must be supplied to any prospective Tenant upon their request within 28 days.
• The local housing authority can request a copy of the report and this must be provided by the Landlord or Agent within 7 days.
• Power to enforce this legislation lies with the local authority.
• Landlords in breach of this legislation can be fined by the local authority up to £30,000.

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