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Testing rules set to be tightened

By Sali Brown

Managing Director

Chelton Brown

ALTHOUGH a reputable letting agent will insist on having electrical appliances in a rented house checked regularly – this is, in fact, a grey area and one that looks set to be tightened legally following the Grenfell Tower fire.

Portable appliance testing (PAT) is the term used to describe the examination of electrical appliances and equipment to ensure they are safe to use. Most electrical safety defects can be found by visual examination but some types of defect can only be found by testing.

In a workplace, the law requires an employer to ensure that their electrical equipment is maintained in order to prevent danger but it does not say how this should be done or how often, and a risk-based approach is usually taken, considering the type of equipment and what it is being used for.

Landlords should consider their responsibilities with regard to electrical items that are provided within a furnished let – this could be anything from kettles and other kitchen equipment to electric heaters and lamps – and items that are over three years old.

It was recently announced that an electrical company, with the support of MP Grahame Morris, has called for laws on appliance testing in rental properties, and for insurance companies to take PAT testing into account when evaluating tenanted premises.

This is just one of a number of checks landlords have to think about – and as a letting agent, our Fully Managed Service ensures that landlords are aware of this and provides assistance in having all the necessary checks carried out, including:

* PAT Testing – if you are leaving appliances that are more than three years old

* Gas Safety Checks – for all gas appliances

* EICR check – to ensure electrical wiring is safe and compliant

* EPC – an Energy Performance Certificate is compulsory before a property goes on the market

* General repairs – to ensure tenants are safe and the house meets required standards

Chelton Brown is ARLA registered, a voluntary registration with an organisation that works to raise standards in the lettings sector and sets strict standards that members have to meet. We are also a SAFE agent and members of the Tenancy Deposit Scheme, both of which ensure that landlords’ and tenants’ money is protected throughout the process.

To find out more about Chelton Brown’s lettings services, contact 01604 603433 or 01327 879431, email or visit www.cheltonbrown.co.uk

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