Landlords have a legal obligation to ensure electrical installations and appliances in rented accommodation are safe.
In a House in Multiple Occupation the electrical supply and installation to the property should be tested every five years to ensure it complies with current safety standards.
Testing should be carried out by an electrical engineer registered with one of the organisations recognised by the Government's Competent Person Scheme.
Following testing, landlords receive an Electrical Installation Condition Report which recommends any work which needs to be undertaken.
Should the report make C1 (danger present) or C2 (potentially dangerous) recommendations, the landlord must act on the recommendations.
Portable electrical appliances
Landlords and letting agents must ensure all electrical appliances supplied as part of the tenancy are in safe condition.
Appliances include fridges, washing machines, ovens, microwaves, etc.
For more information about the legal responsibilities for electrical safety, visit the Electrical Safety Council website.