Government announces tenant electrical recommendations consultation
The government has published recommended new safety measures to protect private tenants from electrical fires and shocks caused by faulty installations. The document, which has been prepared by the Housing Minister Heather Wheeler has been sent out for consultation and the final measures will be announced as part of the Hackitt review into Building Regulations and Fire Safety due to be completed in the Spring.
The proposed measures include a 5-year mandatory electrical installation check, mandatory fire safety certificates to be provided to tenants and the local authority if requested, the establishment of a private rented sector competent person scheme to ensure electricians are correctly trained and landlord electrical testing and visual checks at change of tenancy to promote good practice.
The England Housing Survey for 2015/2016 has shown that 60% of the homes in the private rented sector already had five recommended fire safety features installed - they are modern PVC wiring, modern earthing, modern consumer units, miniature circuit breakers and Residual Current Devices. These new measures are designed to target landlords that are failing to meet even minimum standards. It has also been shown that tenants in the private sector are more likely to suffer shocks and fires due to electrical faults.
Heather Wheeler has said that all tenants deserve a safe place to live and while there are already safety measures in place, tenants need further protection. However, she does point out that a balance needs to be struck between the protection of tenants and fairness to landlords. This is why the document has been sent out for consultation so independent recommendations can be assessed.
The consultation will seek views on each of the safety recommendations and how best to enforce them. Additionally, the government wants to know what the penalties should be for non-compliance. A recommendation of a fine of up to £30,000 for landlords that fail to comply has been made.