Electrical Safety Checks for Landlords in Wales: What Renters Need to Know

If you rent a home in Wales, you may be wondering whether your landlord is legally required to carry out regular electrical safety checks. Understanding what protections you have around electrical safety can help give peace of mind and ensure your home is safe. In Wales, the rules around electrical safety in rented properties have changed with the introduction of new renting legislation. This guide explains your rights, your landlord’s responsibilities, and what you can do if something goes wrong.

Electrical Safety Requirements for Rented Homes in Wales

Since 1 December 2022, new regulations introduced by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 apply to nearly all private and social rented properties in Wales. These laws set clear duties for landlords to ensure homes are electrically safe.

Are Periodic Electrical Inspections Mandatory?

Yes. Landlords must ensure that the electrical installations in your home are inspected and tested by a qualified electrician at least every five years. These are officially called Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR).

• Initial safety check: The property’s electrics must be inspected before you move in (for new contracts after 1 December 2022).
• Ongoing checks: Further inspections must take place every five years, or sooner if recommended in the last report.
• Copies provided: You must be given a copy of the latest electrical report within 14 days of moving in, and within 14 days of the inspection after that.

If you haven’t received a copy of the EICR, you have the right to request it from your landlord. The report should tell you if any urgent repairs are needed and when the next inspection is due. For more information, see the government’s full guidance on renting homes in Wales.

Other Landlord Electrical Duties

• Landlords must make sure all ‘fixed’ electrical parts (including plug sockets, wiring, and light fittings) are safe throughout your tenancy.
• Any repairs identified in the electrical report must be completed within a reasonable time. If an issue is flagged as ‘urgent’ or dangerous, it should be fixed immediately.
• Portable appliances provided by the landlord (like kettles or microwaves) should also be safe, although regular Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is not legally required.

This legal protection covers all new and existing tenancies (called ‘occupation contracts’ in Wales). Local councils have powers to enforce these rules and can fine landlords who fail to comply.

What to Do If You Have Electrical Safety Concerns

If you notice sparking sockets, exposed wires, tripping fuses, or other concerns, tell your landlord or letting agent straight away in writing. Describe the problem and request prompt action. If repairs aren't carried out or you don't receive your electrical report, you can:

• Contact your local council's environmental health department
• Apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales for certain disputes

Relevant Forms for Renters in Wales

• Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) Complaint Form: Use this to alert your local council if your home has unsafe electrical conditions. An inspector can then assess hazards and require the landlord to fix them. Forms vary by council—find yours through your local council website (search “report a housing hazard”).
  
  Example: If your landlord does not provide an EICR or ignores reports of dangerous wiring, submit the HHSRS complaint form to your council, who can take investigative action.
• Application to Residential Property Tribunal Wales: If you face eviction or penalties for asking about safety, you may be able to challenge via the Tribunal. For more, see the Residential Property Tribunal Wales - How To Apply page.

Penalties for Landlords Who Don’t Comply

Failure to carry out required electrical safety checks or fix hazards can result in:

• Civil penalties issued by the council (up to £30,000)
• In some cases, prosecution with unlimited fines
• Being prevented from serving an eviction notice until safety standards are met

These penalties are designed to keep renters safe and ensure all homes meet a minimum legal standard.

FAQ: Electrical Safety Checks for Renters in Wales

1. Do I have to let the landlord’s electrician in for an inspection?
   Yes, you must allow reasonable access for safety inspections. Landlords should give at least 24 hours’ notice and agree a suitable time with you.
2. What should I do if I never received an electrical safety report?
   Write to your landlord or agent requesting the latest EICR. If they do not provide it, contact your local council’s housing department for assistance.
3. Does the law apply to all types of rented homes?
   These rules cover almost all private and social rented property tenancies (occupation contracts) in Wales, including houses and flats. Exemptions are rare (e.g., lodgers sharing with the landlord).
4. Can my landlord evict me for asking about electrical safety?
   It is unlawful for a landlord to evict or threaten eviction as retaliation for exercising your rights. If this happens, seek help from your local council or Shelter Cymru.
5. What is an EICR?
   An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a formal safety check on a property’s fixed electrical system, carried out by a qualified electrician. You’re entitled to see a copy.

Key Takeaways for Welsh Renters

• Landlords in Wales must complete five-yearly electrical safety checks (EICR) and provide you with copies.
• If you think your landlord isn’t following electrical safety law, contact your local council for help.
• Your safety matters—don’t ignore electrical hazards, and always keep records of your requests.

Understanding your rights helps ensure your home is both safe and comfortable to live in.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• GOV.UK: Private Renting — Guides for renters and links to government services.
• Report housing issues and safety hazards to your local council
• Shelter Cymru Advice — Free, independent housing advice for Wales.
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales — For tenancy legal matters and disputes.
• Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 — Read the full legislation.

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
2. UK Government Guidance – Electrical Safety in Wales
3. Shelter Cymru: Electrical Safety
4. Residential Property Tribunal Wales

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