Landlord Guide to Electrical Safety
Supporting information for Scottish Landlord Registration
Key points
From 1st December 2015 landlords are required to undertake two types of electrical checks on their rental properties; an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) and a Portable Appliance Test (PAT).
The two parts to the electrical safety inspection are –
- an inspection of installations, fixtures and fittings – (EICR)
- a record of testing of appliances provided by the landlord – (PAT)
The tenant must be given a copy of the inspection when it is done. A new tenant must be given a copy of the most recent inspection before the tenancy begins.
Landlords should ensure that inspections are carried out by a competent person – there the standard of what is expected is in the guidance below.
The minimum standard is that an electrical safety inspection is carried out every five years – but testing can be carried out more frequently details are in the guidance below.
Further Context
- Full information on how to comply can be found on the Scottish Government website
https://www.gov.scot/publications/electrical-installations-and-appliances-private-rented-properties/ - Useful information can also be found in on the Electrical Safety-First website https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/
Maximise your Success as a Landlord
LAS run a regular programme of training courses helping landlords adopt best practice and remain updated with changes to legislation. Anyone involved in letting property in the private rented sector in Scotland is welcome to attend. You do not need to be accredited.