Being a parent and a landlord is like being in a circus with a million balls in the air. One of those balls is the electrical safety of your rental properties. Your tenants, especially kids, depend on it.
Safety is non-negotiable. Especially when it comes to electricity, however, navigating the electrical safety certificates can feel like a full-time job. Don’t worry. We’ll untangle the wires for you.
What is a Landlord Electrical Safety Certificate?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), also known as a ‘Landlord Electrical Safety Certificate’, is a document that proves your property’s electrical installations are safe. It’s a legal requirement for landlords in England, enforced by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and backed by organisations like the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC) and the National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers (NAPIT).
This certificate is a stamp of approval, showing potential tenants your property’s electrical systems are up to scratch. It’s a vital step in preventing electrical hazards and keeping your tenants safe, so resident safety is a top priority.
Get an Electrical Safety Certificate
Being a landlord is more than just keeping the property looking nice; it’s about keeping all the technical bits, especially electrical safety, in working order. Let’s get an Electrical Safety Certificate even with your busy schedule.
- Find a Certified Electrician: Look for a registered electrician who is a member of a professional body like NICEIC or NAPIT. They can perform EICR inspections and ensure your property meets safety standards.
- Book an EICR Inspection: Schedule the inspection at a time that suits you and your tenants. If your tenants have kids, try to book the inspection at a time that minimises disruption to their family routine.
- Read the EICR Document: The electrician will give you the EICR after the inspection. This report will show whether your electrical system is compliant or requires remedial work.
- Do the Repairs: If the inspection finds any issues, get them fixed by a qualified electrician as soon as possible.
- Monitor Regularly: Schedule EICR inspections to keep your property compliant and safe.
These steps make getting an Electrical Safety Certificate easier. EICRs show you’re serious about safety—especially when renting to families with kids. By following these regulations, you’re protecting your tenants and yourself from fines from the local authorities. You don’t want to be rogue landlords who ignore these essential safety measures. EICRs for landlords can be sourced from places such as Hexo Electrical Testing and can help ensure you follow regulations. These experts can also advise what work needs to be done, if any.
Electrical Safety for Families: Childproofing Your Rental
As a landlord, you’re not just renting out a property but providing a home. Here are some ways to childproof your rental and make it a safe environment for families to thrive.
Local Authority Guidelines and Regulations
Local authorities, such as the London Borough of Barnet Council and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, have guidelines for childproofing homes.
You need to be aware of these regulations to keep your property safe. Stay updated with any changes or updates to these guidelines so your property remains compliant. As a landlord, you have a responsibility to follow these rules.
DIY Safety Fixes
Simple DIY fixes can prevent electrical accidents:
- Cover sockets with plug covers.
- Tie up loose wires.
- Keep appliances out of reach of kids based on their age and ability
- Keep the place tidy.
- Install smoke alarms and make sure they work
- Consider an alarm panel for extra security
You can also get kids involved in fun activities that teach them about electrical safety. This will educate them and help create positive feelings toward safety.
The Role of Professionals
Don’t hesitate to call in the professionals for jobs like cavity wall insulation, gas safety checks or complex electrical installations. NICEIC and NAPIT can help you find certified tradespeople who offer safe and reliable services. If you have a gas boiler, consider a reputable brand like Worcester Bosch, which is known for safety and reliability. Remember, safety is an investment, not an expense.
Ongoing Control and Monitoring
Regular checks, repairs and maintenance are as important as the initial childproofing. Just as you keep up with your EICRs, keep monitoring and improving your childproofing.
Efficiency and Safety: Simplifying Property Management
Efficiency and safety are essential to good property management. Simplifying your tasks, especially around certificates and inspections, can make a big difference for busy parent landlords.
Consider using digital tools to manage your property documents better. An online folder for all your housing-related paperwork can be a lifesaver, ensuring you always have access to your EICR.
Government websites are also a good place to keep up to date with mandatory safety regulations, including the Building Safety Act and any building safety fees. Check these regularly to stay one step ahead and balance electrical safety and property management. You may also consider appointing a building safety manager to oversee these areas.
Common Electrical Problems and How to Fix Them
Here are some common electrical issues you may find in your rental properties. These can disrupt your tenants’ lives and, more importantly, be a safety risk.
- Frequent Power Surges: These can be caused by faulty wiring, appliances or lightning strikes. Regular checks by a qualified electrician will help prevent surges. Consider fitting surge protectors on main appliances and sensitive electronics.
- Overloading of Power Points: When too many devices are plugged into one outlet. Educate your tenants about the dangers of overloading and get them to spread their electrical usage across multiple outlets.
- Faulty Light Switches or Sockets: Flickering lights, sparking sockets, or hot switches could be a problem with the circuit. Call a qualified electrician ASAP to get these sorted out.
- Circuit Breaker Tripping Frequently: High-wattage appliances like microwaves or hairdryers can trip circuit breakers. Tell your tenants to unplug these when not in use. If it still trips, have an electrician investigate wiring issues.
- Light Bulbs Burning Out Too Quickly: This could be caused by high-wattage bulbs, incorrect fittings, or faulty wiring. Ensure your tenants use the right wattage bulbs and resolve any persistent issues.
Prioritise Safety and Peace of Mind
Childproofing is important for your home and rental properties. Inspections, professional services, and tenant education are vital to preventing accidents. Following building safety standards and electrical safety, you can give your tenants a safe and secure home.
Remember:
- Whether you’re a social landlord or a private one, your responsibility for your tenant’s safety remains the same.
- Electrical Safety First is an excellent resource for more information and guidance.
- Gas safety checks are as necessary as electrical ones; a Gas Safe registered engineer does these annually.
- Consider the stairways and other hazards on your property.
- Open communication with your tenants is key. Ensure they understand the importance of safety measures and get them to report any issues immediately.
- If your property has concrete walls, be mindful of the challenges this may pose for electrical installations or childproofing.
It may seem like a lot of work, but the peace of mind is worth it. After all, nothing is more important than the safety and well-being of your tenants and their families.
POSTED BY 
