Regular electrical testing in rental properties
All landlords and managers are only too aware that rented property must have a valid Electrical Safety Condition Report (EICR) before a tenancy can commence. Every EICR must also be renewed at five-year intervals.
If any portable appliances are provided for tenants you’ll need to get these tested for electrical safety at regular intervals. It’s a simple test that won’t take long for each appliance and you may only need to do this once every couple of years. Appliances covered by manufacturer’s warranty do not require portable appliance testing. We’ll advise you as to your own particular needs.
HMO landlords will need to arrange for a formal test of these lights at least twice a year. A formal annual check ensures they will stay on for a designated minimum time – usually three hours. A semi-annual check at the 6-month point ensures that they remain in good working order. If you do not wish to have a formal semi-annual check, you will need to train up a representative to test them briefly once a month. Whenever we carry out these tests we’ll help maintain your logbook, keep duplicate records, and remind you in good time when the next test is due.
These are obligatory in enclosed communal areas. Fire alarms need to be tested every six months. We are accredited to test any fire alarm system that is not maintained by the original installer and we are registered as approved maintenance contractors by leading manufacturers including Hyfire and EMS. Whatever your testing requirements, we’ll test your system, help you maintain your logbook, keep duplicate records and make sure repeat tests are carried out in good time.
In HMOs smoke detectors are required in every room as well as in communal areas and shared kitchens.
Harland & Voss is accredited to design and install fire alarm and emergency lighting systems. So if your block doesn’t yet have a system, or you are thinking of changing what you have, we’ll be happy to advise you on your particular requirements.
If we can help you plan your testing requirements, please call us on 020 8451 0345.