As a landlord, you have a legal responsibility to ensure the safety of your tenants. One of the key ways to do this is by obtaining an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). An EICR is a detailed report that identifies any potential electrical hazards in a property and outlines the necessary remedial actions. It is a crucial document that should not be ignored. In this article, we will explain the importance of an EICR, the consequences of not obtaining one, and how you can ensure compliance.
What is an EICR?
An EICR is a report that is carried out by a qualified electrician to assess the safety of the electrical installation in a property. It provides an overview of the condition of the wiring, accessories, and other electrical components, and highlights any defects or potential dangers.
Why is an EICR important?
An EICR is important for several reasons. First and foremost, it ensures the safety of your tenants. Faulty electrical installations can cause serious harm, and an EICR can identify potential hazards before they become a problem.
Secondly, an EICR is a legal requirement. Landlords are required to obtain an EICR at least every five years, or when there is a change of tenancy. Failure to comply with this legal requirement can result in hefty fines and even imprisonment.
Finally, an EICR can also help to protect your property. Electrical faults can cause fires, which can result in damage to your property and financial losses. By obtaining an EICR, you can identify potential hazards and take steps to prevent fires from occurring.
The Consequences of Ignoring EICRs
If you ignore the legal requirement to obtain an EICR, you are putting yourself at risk of facing serious consequences. The local authority can issue you with a hefty fine of up to £30,000. Furthermore, if there is an accident caused by an electrical fault in your property, you could be held liable and face a costly legal battle.
Ignoring EICRs can also affect your insurance. Most insurance policies require landlords to comply with legal requirements, and failure to do so can result in your policy being void. This can leave you liable for any damages or losses that occur as a result of an electrical fault.
How to Ensure Compliance
The easiest way to ensure compliance is to obtain an EICR from a qualified electrician. This report will identify any hazards and outline the necessary remedial actions. You should ensure that any remedial work is carried out promptly and that you keep a record of the work done.
It is also important to keep up to date with the legal requirements. The law around electrical safety is constantly evolving, and it is essential that you stay up to date with any changes. You can do this by regularly checking government websites and consulting with us.
EFE Fire & Electrical Ltd. is an NICEIC approved and BAFE accredited electrical & fire safety services company. Our qualified electricians provide thorough and reliable inspections, with prompt remedial work if necessary, to give you peace of mind and protect your property.
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FAQs
Q: How often do I need to obtain an EICR?
A: Landlords are required to obtain an EICR at least every five years, or when there is a change of tenancy.
Q: What happens if I don’t comply with the legal requirement to obtain an EICR?
A: You could face a hefty fine of up to £30,000 and could be held liable for any damages or losses that occur as a result of an electrical fault.
Q: What is the purpose of an EICR?
A: The purpose of an EICR is to identify any potential electrical hazards in a property and outline the necessary remedial actions.
Q: How can I ensure compliance with the legal requirements?
A: The easiest way to ensure compliance is to obtain an EICR from a qualified electrician and ensure that any necessary remedial work is carried out promptly. It is also important to stay up to date with any changes to the legal requirements.
Q: Can I carry out the EICR myself?
A: No, EICRs must be carried out by a qualified electrician who is registered with a competent person scheme.
Q: How long does an EICR take to complete?
A: The length of time it takes to complete an EICR will depend on the size and complexity of the property. However, a standard 3-bedroom house should take around 3-4 hours to complete.
