Electrical safety checks are an important part of renting in Wales. As a tenant, you have the right to a safe home and clear information about when inspections will happen, who will access your property, and how faults will be fixed. Landlords are generally responsible for arranging periodic tests such as an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), addressing dangerous wiring promptly, and keeping records. This guide explains what tenants should expect during checks, how to ask for copies of certificates, when to report hazards, and what to do if a landlord does not act. It includes practical steps for raising concerns with your landlord, contacting your local authority, and, if needed, taking a case to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
Landlord responsibilities for electrical safety
Landlords must make sure wiring and fixed electrical equipment are safe. In practice this means arranging periodic inspections, fixing dangerous faults quickly, and sharing certificates so tenants can see that checks happened. Landlords should also give reasonable written notice before any inspection or repair visit.
- Arrange periodic tests such as an EICR within the recommended interval and after major works to fixed wiring.
- Keep clear records and provide copies of EICRs or test summaries to tenants on request.
- Repair or isolate dangerous wiring promptly when faults are identified to protect habitability.
- Provide reasonable written notice before entry for inspections, explaining who will attend and why.
What tenants should do when checks are due or a hazard appears
If you are due an inspection, ask your landlord for the date, the name of the electrician, and how long the visit will take. If you discover exposed wiring, burning smells, or repeated tripping of sockets, tell your landlord in writing and keep a copy of that message.
- Ask for the EICR certificate or written test summary and request it within a short, reasonable time frame.
- Keep a record of communications and photos showing the hazard and when you reported it.
- If the landlord does not act, contact your local authority environmental health team to report the risk and request an inspection.
Official forms and certificates tenants may need
Certificates and formal applications are part of resolving unresolved safety problems. Below are the most relevant official documents and when a tenant might use them.
Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
An EICR is the electrician's certificate that describes the condition of fixed wiring and highlights dangerous issues. Tenants can ask the landlord to provide the EICR after an inspection so they can see required remedial work and dates of tests. Official guidance explains what an EICR covers and how often tests are recommended.[1]
Claim form: N1 (County Court claim form)
Form N1 is used to start many types of civil claims in the county court, including claims for repairs costs or compensation if a landlord refuses to act and other resolution routes have been exhausted. For example, a tenant who paid for an urgent electrical repair after notifying a landlord might use Form N1 to seek repayment of the cost. The official form and guidance explain how to complete and file it.[2]
First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) application
The First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) hears property and tenancy disputes in England and Wales. Tenants can apply to the tribunal for specific orders relating to property conditions, including matters tied to safety and repairs, where statutory routes apply. Guidance and application forms are available from the tribunal page.[3]
If a landlord still will not act
Follow these steps: raise the issue in writing and set a clear deadline for action; contact your local authority if the hazard is serious; consider alternative dispute routes such as the First-tier Tribunal or a county court claim when appropriate. When taking action, present the EICR, communications, photos and receipts as evidence. Note the main legislation that governs tenancy rights in England and Wales for reference.[4]
FAQ
- Who organises electrical safety checks — landlord or tenant?
- Landlords are normally responsible for arranging checks and paying for an EICR; tenants should allow reasonable access and keep records of communications.
- Can I refuse entry for an electrical inspection?
- You should not unreasonably refuse reasonable requests for access. A landlord must give reasonable written notice; if you have safety or privacy concerns discuss them and, if necessary, seek advice from your local authority.
- What steps can I take if a landlord refuses to fix dangerous wiring?
- Report the hazard to your local authority environmental health department, keep evidence, and consider applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) or pursuing a county court claim if the matter is not resolved.
How-To
- Request the EICR certificate in writing and ask for a copy within a specific timeframe so you have proof of the request.
- If you believe wiring is dangerous, report it to your local authority environmental health department and request an inspection.
- If the issue remains unresolved, gather your evidence and apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) or consider a county court claim using the appropriate form.
Key Takeaways
- Tenants in Wales have the right to safe electrical systems and to see relevant certificates.
- Keep dated records, photos and receipts to support any complaint or application.
- Contact your local authority early for serious hazards and consider tribunal routes if needed.
Help and Support / Resources
- Rent Smart Wales (landlord and tenant regulation and support)
- Welsh Government: Housing
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) guidance and applications
