England: the key duties
Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, private landlords must:
- Have the electrical installation inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years
- Give a copy of the report to existing tenants within 28 days
- Give a copy to new tenants before they move in
- Supply the report to the local council within seven days if asked
- Complete any remedial or further investigation work within 28 days, or sooner if the report says so
- Confirm in writing to tenants and the council that remedial work is done
What happens if you don't
Councils can take enforcement action, arrange the work themselves and recover the cost, and issue financial penalties of up to £30,000. More importantly, faulty electrics put tenants at real risk.
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Scotland and Wales
In Scotland, private landlords need an EICR at least every five years, portable appliance testing on appliances they provide, and interlinked smoke and heat alarms. In Wales, landlords need an electrical condition report at least every five years and working mains-powered smoke alarms on each storey. Northern Ireland has its own requirements, so check current guidance there.
Making it painless
Diarise inspection dates, book between tenancies where possible, and ask electricians to quote for the report and remedial work separately so you can compare. Keep every report and confirmation together.
