The UK Government has today, 1 June 2020, released guidance on the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020.

The rules apply to new tenancies entered into (signed and dated) on or after 1 July 2020 and for all existing tenancies from 1 April 2021. It will cover all private tenancies including licenses to occupy and non-Housing Act tenancies such as Company Lets.

Landlords must ensure that the electrical safety standards are met when the property is occupied during a tenancy and every fixed electrical installation at the property is inspected and tested at least every five years by a qualified person.

The guidance includes details on who is competent and qualified to do the checks as well as new build property and remedial works.