What Electrical Checks Should Knebworth Landlords Arrange?

Letting a property in Knebworth comes with an ongoing responsibility to keep the electrical installation safe for whoever is living there. Many landlords are unsure exactly which checks they should be arranging and how often, particularly if they have only recently started letting a property or have taken on an older Knebworth home with an installation of unknown history.

Below is a rundown of the main checks worth arranging, based on the kind of work JH Electrical 247 Ltd regularly carries out for landlords in Knebworth and the surrounding villages.

The EICR

The main check is the Electrical Installation Condition Report, which assesses the fixed wiring, consumer unit, sockets and other permanent fittings against current safety standards. It is standard practice for landlords to have this done every five years, and it gives you a clear written record of the property's electrical condition along with any recommended remedial work. For Knebworth properties, particularly older cottages and converted buildings in and around the village, this is often where issues with dated wiring or an outdated consumer unit first come to light.

Smoke and heat alarms

Alongside the fixed wiring, it is worth checking that smoke alarms and heat alarms are correctly fitted, powered and interlinked where required, and that any electrical work associated with them, such as hardwiring into the mains, has been carried out properly. This is a quick check for an electrician to carry out alongside other visits and gives peace of mind that the alarm system will actually work when needed.

Between-tenancy checks and appliance safety

It is good practice to have sockets, switches and light fittings visually checked between tenancies, especially if the previous tenant reported any issues or if fittings look worn. If you supply any electrical appliances with the property, such as a cooker or washing machine, these should also be safe and in good working order. JH Electrical 247 Ltd carries out EICR testing, alarm checks and general electrical maintenance for landlords in Knebworth, and can put together a schedule of checks that fits your property and how often it changes tenants, so you always know what is due and when.