The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has recently updated its guidelines prior to the July 1st implementation of the new electrical safety checks for new tenancies.

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Below is a section taken from HCLG guidelines for landlords operating in the private rented sector.

• Ensure national standards for electrical safety are met. These are set out in the 18th edition of the ‘Wiring Regulations’, which are published as British Standard 7671.

• Ensure the electrical installations in their rented properties are inspected and tested by a qualified and competent person at least every 5 years.

• Obtain a report from the person conducting the inspection and test which gives the results and sets a date for the next inspection and test.

• Supply a copy of this report to the existing tenant within 28 days of the inspection and test.

• Supply a copy of this report to a new tenant before they occupy the premises.

• Supply a copy of this report to any prospective tenant within 28 days of receiving a request for the report.

• Supply the local authority with a copy of this report within 7 days of receiving a request for a copy.

• Retain a copy of the report to give to the inspector and tester who will undertake the next inspection and test.

• Where the report shows that remedial or further investigative work is necessary, complete this work within 28 days or any shorter period if specified as necessary in the report.

• Supply written confirmation of the completion of the remedial works from the electrician to the tenant and the local authority within 28 days of completion of the works.

You can find out more information about types of tenancy that are affected, HMO rules and more from the HCLG here.