The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has issued guidelines ahead of new electrical safety checks coming into force for new tenancies from July 1.

The guidelines cover the key part of the legislation, which for landlords and their agents are namely:

– ensuring the electrical installations in rented properties are inspected and tested by a qualified and competent person at least every five years;

– obtaining a report from the person conducting the inspection and test which gives the results and sets a date for the next inspection and test;

– supplying a copy of this report to the existing tenant within 28 days of the inspection and test;

– supplying a copy of this report to a new tenant before they occupy the premises;

– supplying a copy of this report to any prospective tenant within 28 days of receiving a request for the report;

– supplying the local authority with a copy of this report within seven days of receiving a request for a copy;

– retaining 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; and

– supplying 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 see the new government guidelines here, for landlords/agents, tenants and for local authorities.