Understand electrical safety standards in the rented sector

To improve levels of safety in rental properties, legislations relating to regular mandatory Electrical Safety Checks is being introduced at a varying pace across the UK
 

England
Since 1^st July 2020 all new private tenancies require an electrical safety check to be in place.
Since 1^st April 2021 all existing private tenancies require an electrical safety check to be in place.
Further information from the English Government can be found here.
 
Wales
As part of the Governments Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, from 1^st December 2022 all social and private tenancies will require an electrical safety check to be in place.
Further information from the Welsh Government can be found here.
 
Landlords have a choice in relation to engaging a person to undertake the electrical safety check and can either:
 
In England and Wales

• Use a contractor that is listed on the Register www.electricalcompetentperson.co.uk

Or in England only

• Find a competent person using a checklist covered in the department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Guidance which can be viewed here.

 
Landlords are guided to use registered businesses by Government.
 
Requirements in Scotland
Private and social landlords in Scotland must ensure an Electrical Safety Check of their property is carried out at least every five years by a competent person. Approved Contractors are recognised by Government to be able to carry out the Electrical Safety Checks.
 
Requirements in Northern Ireland
Regular Electrical Safety Checks in the rented sector are currently not mandatory but are strongly recommended by NICEIC, Electrical Safety First and the wider industry. Should you need an Electrical Safety Check in Northern Ireland, please contact a certified NICEIC Approved Contractor.