Welcome back to Stentons Property blogs! This week we’ll be discussing all things EICR for landlords in Wales!

Being a landlord in England comes with a set of responsibilities, not just to ensure your tenants have a comfortable home, but also to make sure they are safe. One key aspect of this is electrical safety, which is where an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) comes into play. If you’re a landlord in England, it’s crucial to understand the EICR requirements and what they mean for you and your rental property.

What is an EICR?

An EICR is an inspection and report that assesses the electrical installations in a property. It identifies any potential hazards, checks for compliance with electrical safety standards, and ensures that the system is fit for purpose. If any issues are found, they are classified based on urgency, with landlords required to take action accordingly.

The Legal Requirements for Landlords in England

In England, electrical safety requirements are outlined under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, which came into effect on 1st July 2020 for new tenancies and 1st April 2021 for existing tenancies. Under this legislation, all landlords must ensure that electrical installations are safe and maintained throughout a tenancy. This includes:

• Having an EICR completed at least every five years by a qualified electrician.

• Providing tenants with a copy of the latest EICR within 28 days of the inspection.

• Addressing any remedial work identified in the report promptly.

• Providing a copy of the EICR to the local authority upon request within seven days.

These rules apply to both new and existing tenancies, making it essential for landlords to stay up to date and ensure compliance.

Why is an EICR Important?

Aside from being a legal requirement, an EICR is critical for ensuring the safety of your tenants. Faulty electrics can lead to serious hazards such as electrical fires and electric shocks. Having a regular EICR helps to mitigate these risks, giving you peace of mind that your property meets safety standards.

What Happens if You Don’t Comply?

Failing to meet EICR requirements can have serious consequences. Local authorities have the power to enforce compliance, and landlords who fail to provide a valid EICR may face fines of up to £30,000 or even be prevented from renting out their property. Moreover, if an electrical fault causes harm to tenants, landlords could be held liable.

Steps to Ensure Compliance

To ensure you’re meeting your obligations:

1. Book an EICR with a qualified electrician before your current one expires.

2. Keep detailed records of inspections and any remedial work undertaken.

3. Give tenants a copy of the report as required.

4. Address any urgent electrical issues immediately to avoid risks and potential penalties.

5. Stay informed about any updates in English rental laws regarding electrical safety.

Final Thoughts

Electrical safety isn’t just a box-ticking exercise—it’s about keeping your tenants safe and your rental business compliant. The EICR is a key part of this, and while it may seem like another task on the landlord’s to-do list, it’s a necessary one. By being proactive and staying ahead of deadlines, you can avoid fines, ensure tenant safety, and maintain a solid reputation as a responsible landlord in England.

Until next time, happy house hunting!