LANDLORD SAFTEY CERTIFICATES FROM TOM FITZPATRICK ELECTRICAL What is a landlord safety certificate or periodic inspection report?
A landlord safety certificate or periodic inspection report is a inspection and test report on an electrical system to BS7671. BS 7671 is the British Standard for electrical installations in the UK. These inspections are the electrical installation equivalent of a car MOT. The tests and visual inspections are performed to a set standard and reported in a standard form. The inspection and test are an in-depth analysis of an electrical system that includes physical examination of cables, fixtures, how the installation was installed and full meter testing of all cablework using specialised test equipment between the fusebox and final current using equipment in a circuit.All circuits are tested.All testing is done to the latest standards so it ensures that installations are updated and upgraded as regulations change. Why do I need one my letting agent doesn't require it.
Some agents require electrical certificates some don't. Generally the better agents ask for them.It has been accepted for a long time that gas safety certificates are required by law. It is not currently law to have a current electrical safety certificate unless requested by local government (for student or HMO properties etc. This fact however does not make them less important. If an installation is unsafe and hurts someone you are liable regardless whether you need a certificate or not. In the small print of nearly all landlord house insurance policies a current electrical certificate is required. In the case of a claim insurance companies will not payout without a copy of all current certificates.It is false economy to scrimp on safety. Most people would think it reckless at the very least for someone to sell a car that is faulty and possibly dangerous. However few think the same about the electrics at their rental property. Do I need a landlord safety certificate for my Insurance
Yes. Most landlord house insurance policies require current electrical certificates. Without them they will not pay out. How long does the safety certificate last for?
The safety certificate can last between 1-5 years depending on many factors. The main factors being the type of rental property, average damage recorded, age of wiring, and the recommendations set out by the IEE and NICEIC.It may be appropriate to issue a 5 year certificate on a new build property rented to a professionals, however it may not be appropriate to do so for a multiple occupancy house where there appears to be abuse to the electrical system by the tenants. How long does it take?
A periodic test on an electrical house installation is a complex and time consuming activity. On average a 2 bedroom flat may take 1-2 hours, a 3 bed semi may take 2-4 hours, bigger houses may take longer again. Test time will depend on the amount of circuits to be tested and the size of the property.Periodic test paperwork is 6 pages and there are no shortcuts. If anyone tells you they can test a house in under the times above be very wary. How much does it cost ? and when can we book you in?
Our standard price for the electrical inspection is £90.00 + VAT and we can usually make an appointment
within a week to carry out your test
To book your appointment please fill in the form below with your chosen date and time
and the address of the property you wish to be tested,We will then call you back the
same day to confirm your booking.
Please note:Appointments to be made between the hours of 8.30am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday