New legislation came into force on Monday 1st June 2020. The requirements of which impose new obligations on private landlords to ensure that their rented residential properties are compliant with the appropriate electrical safety standards.

The ‘Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020’ – applies to all new tenancies commencing Wednesday 1st July 2020 and from Thursday 1st April 2021 all landlords irrespective of tenancy start date will be expected to ensure their portfolios comply.

Landlords will be expected to ensure that rented properties comply with the appropriate standards during tenancies. Properties will need to be inspected/tested by a qualified person prior to any new tenancy with immediate effect and where the report identifies issues there are set timescales for remedial works the landlord must adhere to.

Failure to comply with this new legislation could see enforcement of the remedial works by Local Authorities as well as fines on the landlord of up to £30,000.

As with all legislation relating to the rental sector it is imperative that landlords are aware of their responsibilities and where using an agent that all required steps are both taken and accurately logged.

For further advice or assistance contact your regional office:

Northumberland – 01665 511989
Tyne & Wear – 0191 274 7171
County Durham – 01833 690390
Yorkshire – 01677 425301