Being a landlord comes with significant responsibilities, and electrical safety is one of the most serious. The law has tightened considerably in recent years, and 2026 has seen further enforcement activity by local authorities. Understanding exactly what is required, and when, protects your tenants, your property, and your finances.
The Electrical Safety Standards
The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 set out the baseline requirements. Every private tenancy must have the electrical installation inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years. A copy of the resulting EICR must be provided to existing tenants within 28 days, and to new tenants before they move in. If the local authority requests it, you must supply a copy within seven days.
What the EICR Must Show
The EICR must confirm that the installation is safe to use until the next inspection. If any C1 or C2 codes are present, the report is unsatisfactory and remedial work must be completed within 28 days, or sooner if the electrician specifies. You must then obtain written confirmation from the electrician that the work has been completed, and provide this to the tenant and the local authority within 28 days of the original report.
Portable Appliances and PAT Testing
If you supply any electrical appliances as part of the tenancy, such as fridges, washing machines, or kettles, you have a duty to ensure they are safe. The most reliable way to demonstrate this is through PAT testing. Appliances should be tested before each new tenancy and at regular intervals depending on the type of equipment and the risk level.
- Kettles, toasters, and microwaves: test annually
- IT equipment such as TVs and lamps: test every two years
- Washing machines and dryers: test annually
- Any appliance that shows signs of damage: test immediately or remove from service
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Landlords must ensure there is at least one working smoke alarm on every storey of the property, and a carbon monoxide alarm in any room with a solid fuel burning appliance. From October 2023, this was extended to include gas appliances as well. Alarms must be tested on the first day of the tenancy, and the results recorded. It is the tenant's responsibility to report faulty alarms, but the landlord must repair or replace them once notified.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Local housing authorities have the power to issue civil penalties of up to £5,000 per breach. They can also arrange remedial work themselves and recover the cost from the landlord. In serious cases, prohibition orders can be issued preventing the property from being let until it is brought up to standard. Repeat offenders may face prosecution.
Expert Tip
D3C Electrical works with landlords across Leicester and Leicestershire to keep their portfolios compliant. We offer discounted rates for multiple properties, send automated reminders when EICRs are due, and carry out any remedial work required without needing a separate contractor. One call keeps your entire portfolio legal.