The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 will apply to all new tenancies from 1^st July 2020.  Existing tenancies will be covered by these regulations from April 2021. This will give all landlords time to make sure they comply with the regulations.

Private sector landlords will be required to have their properties’ electrics inspected every five years and fix any serious problems within 28 days (or sooner if specified in the report).

Landlords will have to provide a copy of the report to existing tenants immediately, to prospective tenants on request, and to new tenants before they move in.

If a local authority requests a copy of the report, this must be provided within 7 days.

Enforcement is by the local authority, which can order that work be done. Failure could result in a civil penalty of up to £30,000.

Electrical safety in rented properties is hugely important to tenants’ health and safety and the regulations also place a constant obligation on the landlord to ensure that the electrical safety standards are met during any period when property is occupied.

These regulations also cover Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)

Guidance on the requirements for enforcement by local authorities is due to be issued ahead of the regulations coming into force. 

Also, watch out for an amended ‘How to rent’ guide which will be updated with the new regulations.

The legislation can be found here: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukdsi/2020/9780111191934