Can I complete replacement electrical work as a landlord?
I have a general query and sorry if this is an obvious one. Are landlords allowed to undertake basic electrical changes ie swap a pendant, swap a cracked socket or faulty socket?
I have been asked to undertake a few accreditation inspections and all is fine, but they have requested that I provide double sockets where singles are.
I have been undertaking my own electrics for over 20years and have 2 friends who I have worked with on 2nd fixes so am capable of wiring sockets etc but am I legally allowed? I can’t find any clear guidance online
Where new runs or plugs are required I am leaving well and truly to an electrician to complete
Also, if I undertake any electrical work do I need a new EICR?
Thanks in advance for any advice
Andrew
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Member Since January 2020 - Comments: 19
7:38 AM, 13th March 2021, About 5 years ago
Thanks for all the replies
I have spoken with my electrician and devised a plan to ensure are check and working as expected
I also spoke to the inspector for accreditation who said the following
– can you ensure there is enough capacity to covert 8 singles to doubles using 1 to 2 socket convertor S
– do I want the liability if goes wrong
– can’t do kitchen or bathroom
Looks like I’ll have to pay for works but just hate it as just means my rents for all my tenants have to go up to offset the costs .
At least I know the answer now for next time if property is vacant, potentially complete works and then pay for an eicr as a check of suitability etc
Member Since October 2016 - Comments: 155
9:11 AM, 13th March 2021, About 5 years ago
Following on from what Paul has said, it’s not just about swapping wires. Albeit it does sound a simple job, but if that’s the case, you would not be looking at a lot of money, so for piece of mind, get a spark.
But if you really do think you are competent, would you be able complete the required paperwork. If the answer is a confident yes, then maybe you are competent. Here is the minor works certificate. https://electrical.theiet.org/media/2209/bs-76712018-model-forms-minor-electrical-installation-works-certificate.pdf
We don’t do this for fun, it’s very relevant information. So let’s assume you buy a meter that allows you to calculate the Ze, do you know what this figure means, what is a pass and what is a fail?
Most DIY electricians only know about wires, they have no concept about testing, yet this is the important bit.