Landlord Electrical Responsibilities: What You Need to Know

If you’re a landlord in the UK, staying on top of your electrical responsibilities isn’t just smart—it’s the law. At SOLV Electrical, we help landlords across South Wales stay compliant, protect tenants, and avoid costly penalties.

Here’s what every landlord needs to know about electrical safety and legal obligations.

⚖️ What Are the Legal Requirements?

As of 1st July 2020, the law states that landlords must:

✅ Have the electrical installation in their rental property inspected and tested at least every 5 years
✅ Ensure the inspection is carried out by a qualified and competent electrician
✅ Provide a copy of the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to:

  • Existing tenants within 28 days

  • New tenants before they move in

  • The local authority within 7 days if requested

⚠️ What Happens if You Don’t Comply?

Failing to carry out an EICR can lead to:

  • Fines up to £30,000 from the local council

  • Insurance issues if damage occurs due to faulty electrics

  • Potential risk to your tenants’ health and safety

  • Delays in tenancy agreements

🔍 What Is an EICR?

An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a thorough assessment of the fixed wiring in your rental property. It checks:

  • Fuse boards / consumer units

  • Wiring and circuits

  • Sockets and switches

  • Earth bonding

  • Signs of wear, damage, or outdated installations

You’ll receive a report highlighting any issues, coded as:

  • C1: Immediate danger – urgent repair needed

  • C2: Potential danger – should be fixed ASAP

  • C3: Improvement recommended (not legally required)

Remedial work must be completed within 28 days, and a written confirmation submitted.

🏠 Additional Landlord Electrical Tips

✔️ Portable Appliance Testing (PAT): Not a legal requirement, but recommended for any provided appliances (e.g. kettles, fridges)
✔️ Smoke & Heat Alarms: Must be fitted in accordance with regulations (one per floor, and in kitchens)
✔️ Emergency Lighting (HMOs): Required for multi-occupancy properties

🔧 Why Choose SOLV Electrical?

We offer fast, reliable, and fully certified landlord services, including:

  • EICRs and remedial work

  • Ongoing maintenance

  • PAT testing (on request)

  • Compliance advice

✅ NAPIT Approved
✅ Certificates issued promptly
✅ Covering Cardiff, Newport, Pontyclun & surrounding areas

📞 Book Your Landlord Electrical Inspection Today

Stay compliant, avoid fines, and keep your tenants safe with SOLV Electrical.

📱 07736 931976
🌐 www.solvelectrical.co.uk
📍 Serving South Wales: Cardiff, Pontyclun, Newport, Cowbridge & more