Propertymark is lending its full support to Electrical Fire Safety Week, which runs from 3 February, by highlighting the critical role of letting agents in preventing potentially life-threatening disasters linked to household white goods.
With recent figures revealing that 1,140 accidental electrical fires involving common household appliances – such as washing machines and tumble dryers – occurred across England last year, Propertymark is emphasising the importance of adherence to electrical safety regulations.
Letting agents and landlords across England, Wales, and Scotland have a legal obligation to ensure the safety of all electrical items provided in rental properties throughout a tenancy.
Beyond just appliances, this duty extends to checking electrical systems, including sockets, switches, and light fittings, to ensure they are safe for tenants.
INSPECTED AND TESTED
In England, the Electrical Safety Standards require all fixed electrical cables and equipment to be inspected and tested by a qualified professional in line with the 18th edition of the wiring regulations.
This includes appliances directly connected to the electrical supply, such as fitted kitchen appliances and showers. Once the inspection is complete, an Electrical Installation Safety Report is issued, confirming compliance and identifying any necessary repairs.
SCOTLAND
Meanwhile, in Scotland, these inspections must be carried out at least every five years by a competent person. A copy of the inspection document must be provided to tenants, with the most recent report shared with new tenants at the start of their tenancy.
Nathan Emerson, Chief Executive of Propertymark, says: “These safety regulations across the country are introduced for a reason, and it’s crucial that agents and landlords meet these requirements to ultimately save lives and protect those who rent in the private rented sector.
“We arm our member agents with important support mechanisms to aid them in raising professional standards and give landlords and tenants peace of mind when using their services.”
