Landlords / Rentals

Effective December 1st, 2022, all landlords in Wales, including private and social landlords, are legally required to have a valid E.I.C.R certificate (Electrical Installation Condition Report) for each rental property they own. This new regulation brings Wales in line with existing policies in Scotland and England, which have mandated five-year E.I.C.R checks for some time. This means landlords in Wales have a responsibility to ensure their rental properties undergo a thorough electrical safety inspection every five years.

What is an E.I.C.R Test?

An E.I.C.R test, also known as a landlord electrical safety certificate or fixed wire test, is a comprehensive inspection of a property's electrical installation. The primary purpose of an E.I.C.R test is to identify any potential electrical hazards that could pose a fire risk or danger to tenants. Qualified electricians conduct these checks to assess the overall condition and safety of all electrical components, including:

• Light fittings

• Sockets and outlets

• Electric shower

• Wiring throughout the property

• consumer Units

Before December 1st, 2022, E.I.C.R tests were optional in Wales. However, with the new regulations in place, they are now mandatory and must be carried out every five years. While not a legal requirement, it's highly recommended for landlords to obtain a new E.I.C.R certificate whenever a new tenant moves in. This proactive approach ensures the safety of the new occupants and avoids any potential issues arising from outdated electrical inspections.

Landlords in Wales have a responsibility to ensure their rental properties are equipped with functioning alarms to keep tenants safe from fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. Here's a breakdown of the key regulations:

Smoke Alarms:

Every rental property in Wales must have at least one mains-powered and interlinked smoke alarm on each floor. This means if one alarm detects smoke, all the alarms will sound, maximising the chance of waking and alerting occupants during a fire. Smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling, ideally near hallways and landings. These locations ensure the alarms are easily heard throughout the property, especially at night.

Carbon Monoxide Alarms:

Landlords must also install a carbon monoxide alarm in any room containing a solid fuel burning appliance, such as a gas boiler or wood burning stove. Carbon monoxide is a colourless and odourless gas that can be lethal if undetected. Early warning from an alarm is crucial in such situations. For cooking purposes only, a carbon monoxide alarm is not mandatory for properties with just a gas cooker.