On 29 January 2019, the government announced tough new measures relating to mandatory electrical inspections for private rented accommodation in England. The government proposes to introduce legislation that will require private residential landlords to undertake safety checks of electrical installations in their properties once every five years. These inspections will have to be carried out by qualified and competent inspectors although guidance on what will be the minimum level of such qualifications and competence is awaited. Penalties have also not been set out however, there are likely to be a range of sanctions, with local authorities being given discretion to decide which is most appropriate in each case.

This announcement follows a government consultation on the recommendations of the Private Rented Sector Electrical Safety Working Group and reflects the government's commitment to drive up standards in the private rented sector.

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