Electricity Safety
Electrical Equipment Safety
What are my duties as a Landlord?
Under The Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994 if you provide any electrical appliances as part of the tenancy you are required to ensure that the appliances are safe when first supplied.
Do I need to carry out Portable Appliance Testing for Electrical Appliances?
There is no specific requirement for you to carry portable appliance testing. As a Landlord you are required to take reasonable steps to ensure that appliances provided as part of the tenancy agreement are safe. Portable appliance testing is one way of checking that equipment is safe to use. It is recommended that appliances are re-checked when the property is re-let to a new tenant.
What checks can I make to ensure that electrical appliances are safe?
Essential
· Make visual inspections yourself as a Landlord to ensure there are no defects such as frayed wiring or damage to the flex cables
· Record details of inspection on a safety checklist
Recommended
· Periodic checks carried out by a qualified electrician
· Ideally, make sure that the electrical system complies with the latest wiring regulations
· Make sure a circuit breaker (RCD) is fitted to power circuits
· Check that appliances are working
· Ensure tenants have operating and safety instruction for any electrical equipment you supply
· Avoid purchasing second-hand electrical appliances for use in rented properties
Useful Links
The Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994
Electrical Safety Fact Sheet
Guide to Electrical Safety
Back to 'Gas, electric and fire safety' page