Mandatory Electrical Checks Every 5 Years
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Housing Secretary James Brokenshire has announced that private landlords will be required to ensure electrical installations in their properties are inspected every five years.
Mr Brokenshire has also launched a consultation into the fire safety guidance contained in the Building Regulations, following recommendations made in the Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety.
“Introducing these checks has the potential to dramatically improve safety in the Private Rented Sector, and ultimately save lives. The NAPIT Trade Association has long been calling for inspections to be required at least every five years, and we set out this position in our response to the Government’s consultation into electrical safety in the Private Rented Sector earlier this year.”
Frank Bertie, Trade Association Chairman at The National Association of Professional Inspectors & Testers (NAPIT)
Over 400 people are injured or killed in fires started by electrical distribution systems every year, and a survey of NAPIT Trade Association members found that tenants in privately rented properties were being put at significant risk.
“While the new checks will inevitably result in more administration and paperwork, it’s a small price to pay for helping to keep our tenants safe and protect our landlord’s investment.”
Sharon Nelson, Director at Turner Scott Lettings.