Landlord Electrical Certificates in Wigan and the North West

The Legal Requirement for Landlords

The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 require private landlords to ensure that the electrical installation in their rental property is inspected and tested at least every 5 years by a qualified person. The landlord must obtain a report from the inspector (an EICR), supply a copy to existing tenants within 28 days, supply a copy to new tenants before they occupy the property, and retain a copy for at least 2 years.

What is Included in a Landlord Electrical Certificate?

A landlord electrical certificate is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) that covers the fixed electrical installation in the property. This includes the consumer unit, all circuits, wiring, sockets, switches, and light fittings. The inspection does not cover portable appliances (which are covered by a separate PAT test).

• Visual inspection of all accessible wiring and fittings
• Testing of all circuits for insulation resistance and continuity
• Verification of RCD and MCB operation
• Assessment of the consumer unit
• Identification of any defects or non-compliance
• Issue of formal EICR report

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Local authorities can impose fines of up to £30,000 on landlords who fail to comply with the electrical safety regulations. They can also carry out remedial work themselves and recover the costs from the landlord. Landlords who cannot show a valid EICR may also face difficulties with insurance claims and mortgage applications.

Remedial Work

If the EICR identifies any C1 or C2 observations, the landlord must ensure that remedial work is carried out within 28 days (or sooner if specified in the report). I can carry out all necessary remedial work and issue a satisfactory report on completion.