As a commercial landlord you will be familiar with the many tests that your property and its contents must undergo to reduce the risks to your tenants and make it an attractive prospect to new business. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 are in place to keep people safe.
‘All systems shall at all times be of such construction as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, danger. As may be necessary to prevent danger, all systems shall be maintained so as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, such danger.’
Part of your responsibility is to ensure the EICR tests (Electrical Installation Condition Report) are done, recorded and available for inspection at any point. Moreover, you must ensure the electrician you choose is certified to perform an EICR.
The EICR test
The EICR test protects your tenant(s) and anyone who enters the property. It is a fact that electrical components deteriorate with age and use so a regular inspection should reveal the following;
- Discover if electrical circuits or equipment are overloaded
- Identify potential electrical shock risks and fire hazards
- Find any defective electrical work
- Highlight any lack of earthing or bonding
There is no law to how frequently EICR inspections are to be done or indeed recorded, but it is recommended by The Electricity at Work regs that, ‘practical experience of use may indicate an adjustment to the frequency at which preventive maintenance needs to be carried out. This is a matter for the judgement of the duty holder, who should seek all the information they need to make this judgement including reference to the equipment manufacturer’s guidance.’ Regulation 4(2) then goes on to say that recording the results is not a legal requirement, but does form part of an effective monitoring system, ensuring that the duty holder, or landlord in your case can be certain that requirements have been complied with. British Standard Code of Practice BS 7671 also covers guidance on maintenance, but not legal obligations however, landlords can find themselves with large fines for failing to meet fire safety requirements.
‘Record attempt by Reading Borough Council to clamp down on landlords of HMOs (Houses of Multiple Occupation) failing to reach required standards.’ Reading Borough Council fine landlord £66k for failing to meet fire safety requirements
Stay compliant with Refurb Electrical
From PAT testing to complete rewires, including fire alarm installation for commercial and industrial properties, Refurb have got your back, and your tenants’! All our electricians are NICEIC accredited to ensure that everyone on site is up to the highest standard of training and diligence.
Get in touch with the team on 01993 685998 or email admin@refurbelectrical.co.uk to discuss your electrical needs.
