From 1st November new amendments to the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) regulations come into effect and they bring tougher penalties for landlords who fail to comply.
These updates form part of a wider reform that extends electrical safety standards to include the social housing sector as well as private rented sector. While many of the existing requirements remain, several key changes will directly impact landlords in the private rented sector (PRS).
A quick refresher on EICRs
An EICR is an inspection that assesses the safety and overall condition of your property’s electrical installations. It highlights any issues or improvements needed to ensure your rental meets current safety standards. These checks must be carried out by a qualified electrician and are typically required every five years.
What’s changing for landlords?
- Increased fines for non-compliance
The maximum civil penalty for breaching EICR regulations will rise from £30,000 to £40,000. This reinforces the government’s focus on ensuring rental homes meet essential safety standards.
- New protection if tenants refuse access
If a tenant refuses entry for an EICR inspection, landlords will now have a legal defence against prosecution provided they can demonstrate reasonable efforts were made to gain access. Importantly landlords won’t be required to begin legal proceedings to prove this defence.
- Local authority responsibilities
Councils will now be obliged to issue remedial notices where an EICR identifies electrical safety failings, further tightening enforcement at the local level.
When do the new rules apply?
All of these changes take effect from 1st November and apply to all PRS landlords.
At Horizon Lets we’re here to help landlords stay compliant and stress free. If you’re unsure whether your property meets the latest EICR requirements our team can guide you through what’s needed and arrange inspections with trusted electricians.
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