One fifth of landlords ignore crucial law

Published: 13/06/2013

Landlords could be in for a nasty shock after a new study revealed 1.7 million tenants have been exposed to faulty electrics.

According to the investigation by the Electrical Safety Council (ESC) in 20 per cent of cases where tenants reported a faulty electrical item the landlord was either slow to respond or, in fact, never addressed the fault.

By law landlords must ensure all electrical items and wiring within their rental property are well maintained and any faults resolved as quickly as possible.

Failing to comply with these legal requirements could leave landlords exposed to tens of thousands of pounds worth of fines. They could also have their insurance policies revoked.

Phil Buckle is the Director General at the ESC. He believes landlords should face “tighter guidelines” regarding electrical safety:

“We need all landlords to understand that they are not only putting people’s lives at risk, but they could also face serious financial loss through fines or invalidated insurance if they don’t act on their existing obligations.”

Unsure what your legal responsibilities as a landlord are? Our latest infographic should help

Content correct at time of publication