Electrical Certificate For LandlordsElectrical safety inspections and tests are now mandatory for landlords of residential properties in England.These are called EICRs (Electrical Installation Condition Reports). Usually, electrical test certificates are completed by a certified and competent person such as an engineer.The lawYou may have noticed that electrical safety checks are mandatory for landlords who lease residential properties. This is to protect your tenants from electrical fires and shocks.The new laws came into effect in July 2020, and they will be applicable to leases that were created or renewed following that date. This means that starting in April 2021, all rental properties in England will require an electrical safety certificate (EICR) in place.It is not always easy to get an EICR. It is a complicated piece of paperwork that must only be completed by qualified electricians.There's also a classification code which is used to assess the degree of risk the wiring installation is at This can help you determine whether you need to make any repairs prior to the inspection. For example in the event that an C3 classification code has been issued, you may need to enhance the wiring system.If the electrical system at your property is in good order, you should be able to demonstrate that reasonable steps have been taken to ensure that it meets safety standards. You can also demonstrate that you tried to arrange the work, including communication with your electricians or your tenant.You may also prove that you are complying with the law by presenting your property for inspection to the local authority. Local authorities are responsible in enforcing law, and they can issue you notice of intent to fine you if they find that you're not meeting your legal obligations.Contact us if you are a private landlord and would like to know more about new regulations, or want guidance on how to meet your legal obligations. Our team can help you learn about your obligations and guide you on how to get an EICR arranged. We can also assist you to comply with the new regulations and ensure that your rental properties are conforming to the most current guidelines.Tenancy agreementsTenancy agreements are a contract that permits landlords to lease their property for a specific time. These agreements usually have a fixed period of time and cannot be altered by either party. These agreements also specify the rent to be paid and the due date.There are a variety of tenancy agreements, dependent on the length of the agreement and the type of property being let. These include the term-for-years tenancy (or periodic tenancy) and the tenancy at your choice, and the tenancy for suffering.Both tenants and landlords have to make the right choice when deciding on the best type of agreement. It's an art of balancing the flexibility of short-term leases which could lead to empty periods and additional advertising costs and the security provided by longer tenancies which guarantee your income.The decision of the landlord is important since it will affect how much the property can be rented out for and the length of time the tenant can remain in the house for. Typically, long-term tenancies are preferred as they offer security for both parties.Electrical certificates show that the electrical systems in the building are safe for use, and it can save both landlords and tenants money in the long term. electric certificates is valid in the event that a local authority inspects the property. It could also be used to give tenants peace of mind knowing that you've taken security measures.It also shields you from being penalized if you fail to adhere to the rules. If a local authorities believes you've failed to take reasonable steps to ensure security of your tenants they will serve a remedial notice on you, demanding you to complete the work in the specified timeframe or risk a financial penalty.These regulations are applicable to all tenancies, new and old. If you can, book an inspection for electrical safety prior to April 2021. A valid EICR is valid for five years.Requirements for remedial worksAs a landlord, you're legally required to ensure that your property is compliant with electrical safety standards outlined in the regulations. This means obtaining an active EICR and getting any necessary remedial work done.If your property doesn't meet the standards then you'll be held accountable for any injuries that occur to those who reside in the property and can be punished up to PS30,000. Or, the local authority can issue a warning to you, requesting that you carry to ensure compliance with the regulations.To ensure that your property is safe, you should always ensure that you employ a fully qualified electrician to carry out any repairs. It is also advisable to ask your tenants to confirm that the person who does the work is a registered electrician.When an electrician inspects a home they will make sure that all electrical appliances are in compliance with British Standards and are safe to use for a long time. This will then result in them issuing a report (usually an EICR) that explains the outcomes of their inspection and test.The report can show that the electrics have been tested and are safe to continue using, or it may recommend further investigation. If the report finds both C1 and C2 dangers the tenant should to make them safe before they move in.However even if the report recommends improvement , but doesn't require further investigative or remedial work to be undertaken it is advised to carry out the work to ensure that you meet electrical safety regulations.If you are a landlord that isn't sure about the condition of your property, you should to contact your leasing agent to discuss what they can do. Your letting agent may be able to arrange for an inspection of your property by an experienced electrician. They can also assist you get an EICR and advise on any further works that need to be completed.How to get an EICRIt is crucial to have an electrical certificate (EICR) when you are a landlord of a rented home. This is because it provides you with legal protection and the peace of assurance that comes from knowing that your property is safe.An EICR is an assessment of the condition in the form of damage, deterioration or conditions that could cause the electrics in your home. It also provides recommendations to improve the condition and assist in ensuring that your property is in compliance with UK law.Get in touch with a trusted electrician obtain the report. The electrician will check your electrical system and examine the overall condition of the installation.Landlords must ensure that an EICR is carried out at minimum every five years or after a change in the tenancy. The frequency of these inspections can be decreased depending on the property and if there are any unusual circumstances, for example, after a flood or fire.A professional electrician can give you the most accurate advice on which type of EICR you require for your property based on its size, use and other aspects. They'll also be able offer an estimate for the report. It could be a flat rate or a per circuit rate.To get the most from your EICR inspection, you must choose a technician who has years of experience in this field and who is registered with the Electrical Competent Person Scheme. These qualifications are the only way to be sure that you're hiring a reliable and qualified technician to perform the inspection.Ask electrical test certificates if they are able to provide you with insurance for the work they carry out. This will safeguard you from any unexpected expenses that could occur.After you've located the right electrician, you'll need to fix a date for the EICR to be completed. It typically takes between 2 and 4 hours.The results of the EICR will be delivered to you within 28 days following the inspection. You'll have the ability to show this to your local authorities and potential new tenants.