Why it matters
Faulty electrical systems can be dangerous and be the cause of fires in your home.
What we do
We test all electrical circuits in the homes and communal areas we manage every four years or whenever there is a change of tenancy (whichever comes first). To ensure safety, we may carry out additional tests if we have concerns or suspect that something could be dangerous.
These reports sometimes bring to light some work that needs to be carried out. When this happens, it is really important that you let us in as soon as you can, so we can carry out the works to keep you and your home safe.
In the electrical test, we will also ensure that all homes have a working smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector. These must be in the main habitable room (normally a living room) as well as in a hallway. Carbon monoxide detectors must be installed in any room with a gas appliance – for example, in your kitchen if you have a gas hob.
What you need to do to keep your home safe
Never carry out electrical repairs yourself. If you are concerned about the electrical installation in your home, please contact us immediately on 0300 330 7003.
If you are planning to do any work to the electrics in your home, contact us on 0300 330 7003.
You must provide us with access to carry out your home’s 4-yearly safety inspection and any necessary remedial work.
If you do not, we might:
- take action against you, which could affect your tenancy
- charge you more for extra costs
Carry out regular checks of your electric sockets (plugs) and appliances.
What to check
Check:
- sockets are not cracked and don’t have scorch marks, or other general damage – they must not be overloaded with too many extension blocks or leads
- leads do not have any cuts, fraying or other damage
- plugs are not damaged, loose, or have scorch marks
Register your appliances with the maker so you can check for product recalls.
Switch off electrical items when you are not using them.
What not to do
Do not:
- use block plug sockets at all and try to avoid using extension leads where you can – if you need to use an extension lead, make sure it is fully unwound and not overloaded by plugging in too many appliances (together they could go over the maximum electricity current rating)
- keep combustible (easily lit) materials near the fuse box or electricity meter
- keep items on top of microwaves
Electrical Safety First
Visit Electrical Safety First for more help and advice, which includes:
- an online socket calculator to check your sockets are safe
- a Visual Checks App to help you ensure your home is electrically safe
Safety in the home
