Here's an extract from an article on Letting
Regulations
There is no statutory obligation on landlords or agents to have professional checks carried out on the electrical system or appliances. However, under the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994, the Plugs and Sockets etc. (Safety) Regulations 1994, both of which come under the Consumer Protection Act 1987, there is an obligation to ensure that all electrical equipment is safe.
Compliance
We would strongly recommend that any Landlord, regardless of whether they see themselves as running a business or not, should make absolutely sure they are complying with these regulations to ensure that all electrical equipment supplied is safe.In order to do this we recommend:·
Annual visual inspections by the landlord or agent - recording this on a safety checklist,
·Inspections on tenant change-overs, recording electrical equipment, its condition and fuses fitted - see PAT Testing
·Periodic inspections of electrical equipment by a qualified electrician.
·5 yearly inspections by a qualified electrician to ensure safety and that the electrical system complies with current electrical regulations.
·Keep all records of these inspections.
Due Diligence
In the event of a tenant complaint or an incident the defence of "due diligence" may be accepted where it can be shown that the landlord or agent took all reasonable steps to avoid committing an offence - you will need documentary evidence of this. A private owner letting a single dwelling (not in the course of business) may have a defence, whereas an agent acting on his behalf will not. However, an agent merely introducing a tenant and not becoming involved in the inventory or management of the tenancy my well be exempt from liability.
© LandlordZONE 2006
