What are a landlord's obligations when a tenant reports an electrical fault?
A private landlord in England must keep the installation safe, have it inspected and tested at least every five years by a qualified person, finish any remedial work the report requires within 28 days or sooner if stated, and give copies of reports and completion confirmations to tenants and, on request, the council.
| Situation | Landlord duty | Timescale |
|---|---|---|
| Tenant reports heat, smell, sparking or a shock | Tell the tenant to switch off at the main switch if it is safe and keep clear, then arrange a qualified electrician to make the installation safe | As soon as practicable; the 2020 Regulations set no fixed timescale for a reported fault |
| Routine inspection and testing of the installation | Obtain an Electrical Installation Condition Report from a qualified and competent person | At least every 5 years, or sooner if the last report says so |
| The report records urgent or improvement-required work | Have the work carried out by a qualified and competent person | Within 28 days of the inspection, or sooner if the report specifies |
| After remedial work is finished | Obtain written confirmation and supply it, with the original report, to the tenant and the local authority | Within 28 days of completing the work |
| New tenancy starting | Give the incoming tenant a copy of the most recent report | Before they occupy the property |
| Existing tenant or local authority asks for the report | Supply a copy | Within 28 days for a tenant; within 7 days for the local authority |
| Duties are not met | The local authority can require remedial action and impose a financial penalty | Penalties of up to £30,000 per breach |
Make the property safe first, then let the paperwork follow: the inspection report, remedial work within 28 days where required, and written confirmation to the tenant.
