Electrical Safety
Most of our homes have an electrical supply. All electrical installations require inspection and testing at periodic intervals as they will deteriorate with age, use, accidental damage and any additions or alternations by non-competent persons. As your landlord, we have a legal responsibility to carry out an electrical inspection every five years.
This is a summary of what we will check during our inspection:
- The earthing and bonding.
- The suitability of the switchgear; old consumer units will need replacing.
- The condition of switches, sockets, light fittings etc. Items that may need replacing for example a bathroom light without IP44 rating to bring the installation up to current safety standards.
- The type of wiring system and its condition.
- Additional protection (RCD) where required.
- The presence of adequate signage.
- The extent of any wear and tear, damage or other deterioration.
If anything potentially dangerous is found, we will try to fix these issues on the first visit. If we are not able to fix the problems immediately, we will ensure the installation is left in a safe condition and arrange another appointment.
Our Responsibilities
We will inspect the fixed wire electrics in your home at the start of the tenancy and then every five years. The inspections and any necessary repairs will be completed by qualified electricians.
Your Responsibilities
- You must allow us access to complete these necessary safety checks. If you fail to do so, we will take legal action to gain access. You will be liable for court costs.
- You must maintain all electrical items you bring into your property. If you have an electrical problem with an appliance we have provided, please contact us as soon as possible.
How to keep you and your home safe
- Make sure you know where your fuse box is, so you can turn the mains switch off in an emergency.
- Never overload sockets or plug adaptors into other adaptors.
- Maintain any electrical items you bring into your home.
- Ensure plugs and sockets are not visibly damaged and replace if necessary.
- Check visible leads and cables are in good condition and replace if necessary..
- Check light fittings are not visibly damaged and in good condition; contact us if you think they need repairing or replacing.
- Always use an RCD (residual current device) on outdoor electrical equipment. This instantly turns off the power if there is a fault. You can buy them in any DIY store.
- Never store combustible materials near the fuse box or the electricity meter.
- Never store anything on top of a microwave.
- Never run cables under carpets or rugs.
- Never take mains-powered electrical items into the bathroom.
- Always switch off and unplug electrical items when you are not using them and especially when you go away.
- Do not store personal belongings in communal electrical cupboards.
We do not usually provide a copy of the electrical safety certificate. If you want one please email compliance@sbhg.co.uk
Visit Electrical Safety First's website for more information
About The Guinness Partnership
Formerly SBHA, but now The Guinness Partnership, we were founded in 1890 to improve people’s lives and create possibilities for them.