Electrical Testing and Certificate Electrical in UK

Domestic electrical testing may not be a legal requirement. Still, it is commonly requested to give landlords, property owners, tenants, homeowners, and potential buyers the confidence in the safety of the property. Moreover, local councils, authorities, and insurers will typically require the electrical safety certificate. You need to make sure that a qualified electrician will provide the testing and certification.

Trade Facilities Services is a electrical testing company that provides (EICR) Electrical installation condition reports. These are otherwise known as Electrical Certificate, 

Electrical Installation Certificates and Electrical Reports. Trade Facilities Services covers London and Essex and provides all electrical testing in these areas. These include Fire alarms emergency lighting, 

Electrical Testing and PAT Testing. All Electricians are registered with NAPIT or the NICEIC and are fully insured and qualified. Trade Facilities Services works on both Domestic and Commercial properties and also covers all landlord electrical certification requirements. All EICR reports can be delivered on the day if required and appoinments generally only require 24 hours notice.

Electrical Safety Certificate – Your Home Safety Checklist

How safe is your home? You can never truly tell until you have it thoroughly inspected by a qualified professional. One of the crucial inspections you must do is the electrical safety check. It will provide a domestic electrical safety certificate that will be helpful for different applications, such as ensuring the safety of electrical wiring and equipment. It’s also a good idea to produce an electrical certificate if you are planning to sell or rent out the property, or if you want to qualify for property insurance. Discerning home buyers may also consider having an electrical safety check done before they purchase or rent a property.

Think of the electrical safety certificate as a means for ensuring that all electrical installations and wirings in your home are safe and in will not put you at risk of accidents, fires, and shock. It will come with a comprehensive electrical report that can be helpful every ten years for fixed wire testing. This service is also available to landlords to ensure tenants of the safety of the rental property. Different kinds of electrical testing are available to landlords, and these include the PAT certificate, fixed wire testing, emergency light reports, and fire alarm inspection. All these certificates are mandatory in an HMO (House of Multiple Occupancy), while standard rental properties will only require fixed & PAT testings.

Domestic electrical testing may not be a legal requirement. Still, it is commonly requested to give landlords, property owners, tenants, homeowners, and potential buyers the confidence in the safety of the property. Moreover, local councils, authorities, and insurers will typically require the electrical safety certificate. You need to make sure that a qualified electrician will provide the testing and certification.

The cost for domestic electrical safety certificates will vary according to the size of the property, particularly on the number of rooms. Rest assured—the EICR will be reasonable, and worth the investment if you consider the peace of mind, it will give.

What Makes Electrical Certificate for Landlords So Important?

Landlords can certainly enjoy a steady income from their property rentals, but they do have a lot of legal responsibilities, too—one of which is the need to secure UK electrical certifications. The landlord electrical certificate is among the most important documents that the government expects you to acquire as a property owner. What exactly is it and why is it so essential to get one periodically?

To earn an electrical certificate for landlords, you need to have your new or altered electrical installations inspected by qualified professionals. This document is more than just a piece of paper. It can be great especially if you find yourself in a dispute one day. Here’s why:

1. It helps you fulfil your legal obligations.

Tests are carried out to check if the electrical installations in your property are safe to use or if they pass the stringent standards set by the statutory regulations. It can prove that you are compliant with UK laws and regulations, such as the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1985, the Electrical Equipment and Safety Regulations of 1994, the Housing Act of 2004, and the Plugs and Sockets Safety Regulations of 1994.

2. It helps you spot problems before they become worse.

Prior to issuance of a certificate, your property is thoroughly inspected by an electrician. The test can reveal potential issues such as overloaded equipment, problematic electrical circuits, fire hazards, defective electrical work, and lack of earthing and bonding. Detecting these issues immediately is key to preventing major problems such as a fire.

3. It helps you avoid insurance disputes and legal issues.

In case of fire or electrical-related injuries occurred in your property, your landlord electrical safety certificate can serve as solid proof that you are not neglecting your legal obligations. By showing it to your property insurance provider, you can easily claim your insurance money. Also, with this document at hand, you can avoid paying hefty fines and facing criminal charges.

PAT Testing London: An Easy Process

Unlike the an EICR, PAT testing in London is not a legal requirement. However, it is highly recommended because it is an effective way to prove that you are doing your legal obligations as a landlord or an employer. Through PAT tests, you can guarantee that all electrical appliances in your business premises or property are safe to use and properly maintained—and that you are therefore complying with the law's requirements to keep your employees and tenants away from danger.

The following are the regulations you will meet if you get PAT testing in London:

·         Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974

·         Electricity at Work Regulations of 1989

·         Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations of 1998

·         Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations of 1999

Although any competent person in your staff can do the routine inspections of appliances, it is still best to give this job to a qualified electrician. You can find plenty of third-party providers offering London PAT testing. They can issue your PAT test certificate. 

So, what can you expect during the inspection? PAT testing in London typically involves the following steps:

1. Visual inspection of portable appliances

The first step in PAT testing is a visual check-up. Electricians inspect portable appliances as well as all stationary appliances, computers, cables, and chargers. A visual check-up involves inspecting of the outer parts of the appliances (including flexible cables) for any signs of wear and tear.

2. In-depth check-up using PAT testing equipment

Because some signs of wear and tear cannot be seen with the human eye, a more in-depth inspection is necessary. This time, the electrician will use special equipment to test the earth continuity, lead polarity, and insulation resistance of the appliances.

3. Marking of appliances

At the end of PAT testing, the electrician places stickers on every appliance that has passed the test. Stickers are also placed on those that failed to pass the test. That way, you'll know what needs to be repaired and replaced.

Become a Licensed Electrician in Essex

Want to become a licensed electrician in Essex but don’t know where or how to start? Aspiring electricians can choose from a variety of training routes to become certified and gain the necessary competence and skills. Here are some of the steps you need to take to become a qualified electrician in Essex.

Get a Level 3 Diploma

Before you can start work as a UK electrician, you have to acquire an industry-recognised “level 3” diploma in a relevant area, which you can earn through several official bodies. Accepted qualifications include the following:

·     Level 3 Diploma in Electro-technical Services (Electrical Maintenance)

·     Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures)

·     Level 3 Diploma in Installing Electro-technical Systems & Equipment (Buildings, Structures and the Environment)

Join the apprenticeship scheme or take a college course

To gain any of the industry-recognised level 3 diplomas, you need to undergo an apprenticeship. This is an important step for gaining real-world and practical experiences. The good thing about on-the-job training for aspiring electricians is that you can earn as you learn.

Alternatively, you can choose to get qualified by taking a college course. You can either choose to study full-time or part-time, depending on your preferences. Some training bodies also offer intensive courses designed for those who want to learn the necessary skills quickly.

Get accredited by trusted regulatory boards

After gaining the required level of competence, you have to get accredited by regulatory boards and organisations. This will be your proof that you have the qualifications and that you are suitable for any electrical work. Some of the regulatory boards you can join in are:

·         JIB

·         NICEIC

·         NAPIT 

·         ELESCA

Any type of electrical work must only be done by a qualified electrician in Essex. That's why this career remains lucrative. But with so many electricians offering their services today, consumers have become more selective. They want to make sure that they are hiring professionals who truly have the essential credentials and experience. Thus, getting educated and trained by a reliable institution or body is a must for all aspiring electricians.

How to Choose a Qualified Electrician in London?

The maintenance and inspection of your electrical installations is a job that should be handled by qualified electricians in Essex or London. Doing these tasks yourself is not only dangerous but may also be illegal, as most regulatory boards only accept reports done by certified and registered electricians in London or Essex. Ignoring electrical tests altogether could also lead to loss of life or property—not to mention a host of legal problems.

You certainly need a reliable electrician. But with so many electricians operating in the area, it's not difficult to find one who can truly provide top-rated services. How do you know if you are hiring the right person? If this is the first time that you are using an electrician in London or Essex, then these tips are for you.

Check if the electrician is registered

The first thing you want to know about the potential electrician you are looking to hire is their registration. This will prove that they have relevant training, education, and experience. Qualified electricians meet the strict standards set by any of the three significant electrical governing bodies namely, NAPIT, NICEIC, and ECA. By checking the directory or calling their association, you can verify if the prospective electrician is indeed registered with them.

Request a list of references

Another important step to do is to call their references or at least read client reviews about them. Finding out what previous customers have to say about their work will say a lot about the electrician's experience, professionalism, and overall quality of service. If the electrician is unwilling to show you a list of references, then this could be a red flag. Certified and professional tradespersons are always willing to provide references when asked to prove their reputation and competence.

Choose an electrician who is insured

Always choose a fully insured electrician in Essex or service provider. This way, you are protected against financial liabilities should there be any damage or accidents in your property.

Electrical Safety Certificate: Why Choose a Certified Electrician in London?

As a landlord, you need to hire qualified electricians to perform all the required inspections and tests in your property so that you can secure electrical safety certificates. This is an important step to ensuring your compliance with UK regulations.  

There are many reasons why you should choose registered electricians. For one, they are the only ones who are legally qualified to provide or sign an electrical certificate for landlords. Obviously, electricians who have relevant education and experience can better ensure that the inspection is done properly and safely. They have the right tools and training to complete your electrical compliance certificate.

Just because an electrician is willing to provide you with an electrical certificate for landlord at an affordable price doesn't mean you should hire that person. Price is not everything. If you want to get comprehensive reports and a reliable landlord electrical certificate, you have to look for a competent, experienced, and skilled electrician.

Understanding how one becomes a certified electrician in London can help you in hiring the right professional. Aspiring electricians can take a variety of training routes to become competent and skilled in this field of expertise. Aside from education, they also need an apprenticeship to gain more experience and pass assessments. You can tell that an electrician has acquired an industry-recognised qualification if he/she has the following:

·         A Level 3 Diploma in Electrotechnical Services. (Electrical Maintenance)

·         A Level 3 Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems & Equipment. (Buildings, Structures and the Environment)

·         A Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installations. (Buildings and Structures)

After gaining the required level of competence, electricians can register with the following regulatory boards and organizations:

·         JIB (Joint industry Board)

·         NICEIC (National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting)

NAPIT  (National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers)

Know the Reason Why Electrical Certificates Necessary for the Landlords?

Being a landlord has a lot of perks. But with those benefits are legal responsibilities that the government expects you to fulfil—such as ensuring that your property is safe to live in. To do this, you have to get electrical certificates for landlords.

According to UK law, you must make sure that the appliances and electrical equipment that you provide in your rental spaces are safe to use. They must also be well-maintained throughout the whole tenancy period. The electrical installations, internal wiring, light fixtures, and plugs should be covered as well.

Aside from this, you must also secure an EICR for landlord every five years if you own an HMO or House Multiple Occupation properties that are occupied by three or more people who form more than two households. Moreover, the tests and inspections must be carried out by a qualified electrician.

The abovementioned points are also some of the reasons why the legislation requires you to get landlord electrical certificate and scheduled Electrical Installation Condition Report or EICR for a landlord.

Proper testing prevents problems through early detection of potential dangers in your electrical installations and appliances. It lets you find out the real condition of your property's electrical work as well as the extent of damage to determine the necessary steps to be made. It also makes it easier to file insurance claims because you can show proof that you are complying with the law. Finally, it lets you protect your valuable investments and safeguard your source of income.

Landlord electrical safety certificates cost around £100. But this may depend on the type of certification or service you need. Aside from the price, you must also consider the qualification of the electrician you are hiring. Make sure that the person is registered with the JIB (Joint industry Board) and has the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) card.

Fire Alarm Testing Tool: Why You Should Meet the Fire Alarm Test Safety Regulations?

Fire alarm systems are designed to protect people by giving them a heads up about the impending danger. But without regular fire alarm tests, you cannot guarantee that your smoke detectors and other devices will work properly during times of emergency. This is the very reason the UK fire alarm legislation requires frequent fire alarm testing and penalises those businesses or employers who will fail to comply with the safety regulations. Minor penalties can be up to £5,000. There is no limit to the fine for major penalties and the guilty party may face up to 2 years in prison.

Aside from complying with the law, there are other reasons why you should include a fire alarm testing procedure in your business' safety and emergency plans.

Prevent fire and property damage

Fire alarm systems not only protect people but also safeguard your property or your source of income. Consequently, it ensures the safety of your valuable investments, tenants, or those people working for you. But as with any devices and appliances, they also deteriorate in time whether they are used or remain unused. Without regular fire alarm testing, you can't be 100% sure that the system will be fully operational during critical situations.

Get your insurance claim easily

One of the requirements of property insurance providers when claiming insurance is your record of fire alarm tests as proof that you are complying with the law and with the insurer’s conditions. If you don't perform a regular inspection, then it will be difficult for you to get paid by the provider. Worse, they may invalidate the policy.

Avoid false alarms

Another reason to do fire alarm testing is to help avoid nuisance caused by a false alarm. Did you know that you may be penalised by the authorities just because your smoke detectors and heat alarms are malfunctioning?

You may be able to test your own fire alarm systems using appropriate testing tools. Nevertheless, fire alarm checks should really be carried out by professional and experienced electricians. This is especially true when there are major problems that must be immediately addressed.

Monitor Your Fire Alarm Operation Regularly Through the Consistent Fire Alarm Testing

Having a fully operational fire alarm system installed in your business premises is a regulatory requirement. To ensure that it is fully operational in case of fire, doing a fire alarm test frequently and consistently is necessary.

Even the most expensive and advanced fire alarm systems can malfunction and wear out if it is not regularly tested and maintained. Failure to keep the system in good working condition can expose you to hefty penalties and even criminal charges. That's why fire alarm tests are important and should not be taken lightly.

The UK government recommends that all fire alarm and detection systems be maintained in accordance with the British Standard, specifically, the BS 5839. Here's everything you should know about fire alarm tests in the UK.

Inspection fire alarm systems should be done every 6 months

UK fire alarm regulations aren't clear on how often fire alarm systems should be serviced. The law simply states that it must be "adequately maintained." However, according to BS 5839, fire alarm systems in business premises should be inspected at least every 6 months or twice a year by a “competent person.” If the building you own is large, experts recommend a quarterly service because the system you have has more components, and therefore, higher safety risks.

Weekly fire alarm tests are also required

Aside from periodic fire alarm tests, weekly tests are also necessary. They may not be as thorough and comprehensive as periodic fire alarm tests done every six months, but they can help identify issues immediately. A quick test allows you to determine whether or not your fire alarm is in working order and address any problem as soon as possible. You don't have to test all the fire alarms every week. You can just activate at least one fire alarm call-point each week, checking the alarm sounds and the panel that receives the signal.

The results of fire alarm tests should be recorded

The "responsible person" in your company should record the results of all the fire alarm test in a logbook. It should show the date, time, duration, and actions taken.

How Electrical Installation Testing Ensures the Safety and Efficiency of Appliances?

Electrical installation testing ensures that all essential aspects of a property's electrical system are in their good working condition. It also helps ensure that the landlord, property owner, or employer complies sufficiently with regulatory standards and legal requirements to avoid fines and penalties due to noncompliance and negligence.

Whether you are a landlord or a business owner, you surely put a lot of resources into your properties and the appliances/equipment inside it. With all this financial investment, the last thing you want is to lose your assets because of fire from sudden electrical surges, overloading, and other electrical-related problems. More importantly, you also don't also want to cause harm to other people. The good news is that with regular electrical installation testing, all these can be avoided. So what can you expect during the inspection?

Fixed wire testing

Poor electrical work can cause a power surges and power failures, which can in turn cause appliances to malfunction or get damaged forever. That's why electricians check the wiring of the property to see signs of wear and tear. They also test their grounding and look for potential weather damage or exposure to pests such as rodents. Each installation is assessed using the standards set forth in the latest version of BS7671 or the IET Wiring Regulations. Fixed wire testing can protect your appliances against common electrical problems.

PAT testing

PAT tests involve various processes such as visual inspection, grounding continuity testing, and soundness of insulation testing. These tests are done to individual portable appliances in the property to ensure they are safe to use. Business electrical equipment is also covered in the inspection for commercial properties. This help make sure they are all functioning properly and won't cause unnecessary strain on the system.

Emergency Light Testing in the UK – How is it Operated?

Once your emergency lighting units are installed, proper maintenance and periodic checks must be conducted to ensure compliance with industry and safety standards. Emergency light testing is a required step to make sure that your system is in proper working condition in case of an emergency. The UK Fire Safety Legislation states that emergency lighting systems should undergo full testing annually and should be flick-tested on a monthly basis. Emergency lighting is a critical investment and requirement in buildings as they ensure proper illumination of escape routes in case of an emergency. This type of lighting also enables building occupants to locate fire-fighting and other emergency equipment in case of a fire.

Emergency lighting systems are typically powered by self-charging batteries that automatically recharge with the help of the mains power or a dedicated power source. Lights or luminaries, as they are called, are either maintained/constantly on/or non-maintained/triggered on by power supply interruption. Emergency light testing or test checks as they are commonly referred to are conducted to make sure that all luminaries and every other part of an emergency lighting system are in working order as stipulated by the British Standard.

Full emergency light testing is typically conducted by cutting off the mains electricity supply so as to trigger emergency lighting. The mains supply must remain switched off for as long as the rated period of the system’s battery and luminaries must be checked to make sure that they are illuminated at the proper levels for the entire duration of such period. Should your luminaries fail anytime during this rated period, your system’s back-up battery must be replaced immediately. Testing should likewise include a log of all defects and issues found during the inspection, especially problems that must be remedied immediately. This is one of the most basic procedures for testing emergency lighting systems in buildings.

Source - https://www.electricalsafetycertificate.co.uk/emergency-light-testing-in-the-uk-how-is-it-operated

Domestic Electrical Installation Certificate: Make Your Home a Safer Place to Live

A domestic electrical installation certificate is issued to homeowners in order to confirm that a new or recent electrical installation work has been constructed, designed, tested, and inspected in accordance to current wiring and electrical safety regulations. It bears similarities with an electrical installation certificate, only it is specifically used for domestic installations and is preferred primarily for its simplicity. Domestic electrical installation certificates are to be used only for the verification or certification of a brand new installation or an alteration or addition to an existing installation, such as new circuits introduced to a system.

Electrical certifications such as the domestic electrical installation certificate provide critical information about a property’s legal compliance to safety regulations. They help ensure that electrical installations within a particular property have been thoroughly inspected and in turn qualify as safe as per current standards. Securing these kinds of safety certificates is crucial as they help protect property owners and managers against legal repercussions of non-compliance to regulations. A domestic electrical installation certificate is also useful when putting a home up for sale as well as when verifying insurance claims. Failure to maintain electrical safety could put you at risk of invalidating your insurance policy as well as facing legal consequences of non-compliance to current standards.

Electrical certifications are to be expected whenever electrical work is done in a building. Electrical installation certificates are typically issued to indicate the safety of works like brand new circuit installations or perhaps the replacement of consumer units and fuse boxes. Minor electrical installations also merit a safety certificate as well as installations and works involving the alteration or addition of existing circuit systems, particularly when those installations are within a room containing a bath, shower, swimming pool, sauna heater, or perhaps kitchen appliances. Domestic electrical installation certificates are different from EICR or electrical installation condition report in that the latter is issued upon the testing and assessment of electrical circuits for potential damage and deterioration over time.

Source - https://www.electricalsafetycertificate.co.uk/domestic-electrical-installation-certificate-make-your-home-a-safer-place-to-live

Know the Benefits of EICR Report for Landlord

An EICR is one of the most important reports you will need as a landlord. It stands for ‘electrical installation condition report’, and it is required every three to five years, as every electrical installation is prone to deterioration over time. Think of the EICR report as an important aspect of ensuring the safety of your property against electrical fires and accidents. The safety check is also known as ‘periodic inspections’, which will provide information on whether your electrical installations are ‘unsatisfactory’ or ‘satisfactory’. The outcome will usually depend on the installation’s condition.

An EICR for landlord can either be a visual condition report or a periodic inspection report. The latter is usually recommended because it tests installations and identifies any concealed damage. The other is only recommended if you have tested the installation recently, and you need an EICR for extra assurance.

When getting an EICR for landlord compliance, you need to make sure that the inspection is conducted only by a qualified electrician, preferably someone NAPIT, ELECSA, or NICEIC registered. That way, you can be sure that they can check your electrical systems against BS 7671 – Requirements for Electrical Installations or IEE Wiring Regulations. The EICR will reveal if any electrical appliance, equipment, or circuit is overloaded, and if there is any fire hazards or potential electric shocks that can occur. During inspection, the electrician may also identify any defective electrical work. The report may also highlight the lack of bonding or earthing.

The best time to get an EICR report is every three to five years. If your property is a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), then you are legally required to get an EICR for landlord every five years, together with a periodic test and inspection. Remember that as the landlord, you are responsible for making sure that your electrical installations and appliances are safe. You can give your tenants more confidence in the quality of your property when you can show them you’re EICR. The electrician can also provide a schedule of circuits after testing and inspection, and it can become a useful asset to your property, in case you intend to make renovations or changes to the structure.

How Often Should A Fire Alarm Be Tested: Fire Alarm Testing UK

One of the things you should know as a landlord or business owner is that fire alarm testing in the UK is mandatory. Moreover, it must be done following the BS5839 and BS5839 regulations for fire alarm and fire detection systems. Those are the same regulations that cover the design, maintenance, and commissioning of fire alarms in buildings. Consider having your fire alarms tested in your premises at the time you require the UK electrical certification, especially when the necessity coincides with it.

The electrical certificate of compliance is often obtained every three to five years. If your property is an HMO (house of multiple occupation), you are required by law to conduct the testing every five years. Fire alarm testing in the UK is best done every six months. Just make sure that it is conducted by a competent electrician who knows how to do it in accordance with part 1 section 6 of BS5839. After the test, log the results and the date in your log book. A fire alarm certificate will be given to you by the electrician once the testing is complete.

You should also do your part in ensuring that your fire alarm is looking and working well. A daily visual inspection will do. As you this, make sure that the fire alarm panel is operating normally and that fault warnings are rectified immediately. You should also consider weekly testing, especially if you have different alarms installed. If you spot any defects, record them and contact an electrician immediately. Electricians who can provide the UK electrician certification can carry out inspections and testing of different kinds of fire alarm systems.

Let a specialist fire alarm engineer perform the test as you have a qualified electrician inspect your premises for the electrical certificate of compliance, so you can determine if the systems can still respond to smoke. The testing can depend on the type and extent of your fire alarm system.

Increase the Efficiency of Your Electrical Appliances with Regular Electrical Testing

Electrical testing does not only involve inspections of electrical installations and fixed wires in your home—it also checks your household appliances. Technical electricians will do Portable Appliance Testing or PAT Tests to check the condition of appliances against UK standards. This is one of the steps to ensure you are complying with the BS 7671 or the IET Wiring Regulations. Regular electrical testing involves the following procedures:

·         Checking if electrical circuits are overloaded

·         Inspecting the property for possible electrical shock risk and fire hazards

·         Identifying signs of wear, tear, and defective electrical circuits

·         Testing earthing and bonding of appliances

·         Checking kitchen and bathroom safety

·         Visual inspections of light fittings and switches

·         Checking for visible signs of burning and scorching

Upon the completion of these tests and inspections, your electrician suggests an action plan. They will determine those that need repairs or replacements, identifying the potential and existing damage. The electrician will also give tips on how to better protect the systems and sockets that connect to electrical equipment. Any non-compliances with the safety standard will be highlighted so that you can take action early on and prevent your electrical appliances from getting damaged.

In addition, the electrician will also help you take extra measures to improve the overall electrical system in your property, which will affect the performance and efficiency of your appliances. You will see all the detailed conditions of your appliances and recommendations in the EICR.

Understanding the electrical condition of appliances through electrical testing reduces the risk of property damage, accidents, injury, fire, and even electric shocks. It is an effective way to safeguard your valuable assets and your family. To get quality inspections and accurate reports, hire a qualified and experienced electrician. Book their services online.

Get the Trustworthy PAT Testing by Qualified, Registered, and Licensed Electricians in Essex, London

Property owners are not required to do PAT Testing in London, but you may want to have it done periodically. This procedure is extremely helpful in ensuring that your property and the people in it are safe from the risk of electrical fires. According to the Health & Safety Executive, electrical appliances in rentable residential and commercial properties should undergo regular tests. PAT Testing in London is highly recommended.

Doublecheck the quality and safety of electrical goods

The influx of cheap electrical goods coming from countries outside the UK has made PAT Testing ever so important. Most of these products are sold in the market without undergoing strict testing procedures, so most of them do not meet UK standards. Using these imported and cheap electrical goods can be very risky, so safety checks are necessary.

Prevent electrical-related accidents

Reports say that 25% of electrical accidents caused by portable appliances. With PAT Testing, such risks can be minimised.

Comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act

The Health and Safety at Work Act was made because of the safety risks that appliances pose. This law places a legal responsibility on employers, requiring them to take practical steps to ensure that using their appliances and equipment will not result in accidents or injuries. While PAT testing in Essex can be done by a competent person who has enough background, knowledge, and experience in PAT Testing, it is still better to hire a professional electrician.

Highly-qualified electricians

When you hire from a trades facilities provider, you can rest assured that their electricians are qualified, registered, and licensed. They have completed all applicable PAT Training courses and have City and Guilds Level 2377-22 and Level 2377-32. They don’t just meet the qualifications of a ‘competent person’ described by the IEE Code of Practice 3rd edition—they surpass these standards.

Get access to the best technology  

Certified electricians are better equipped with the required technology and testing equipment. They can provide quality inspections, accurate reports, and even PAT Testing certificates on completion.

Monitor and Ensure Your Fire Alarm is Operational with Effective Fire Alarm Testing

Fire alarms form vital parts of safety systems in both residential and commercial properties. This said, different buildings have different safety requirements, which is why various tests are prescribed in order to ensure the security and safety of properties and occupants against fire damage. Fire alarm testing in the UK is a critical requirement to building safety and procedures are recommended to be carried out regularly, so as to make sure that both tenant and landlord are in compliance with their legal responsibilities.

First warnings of a fire often come from an alarm system, which is why fire alarm testing in the UK is such a crucial safety requirement for buildings. Fire alarms should generally be placed in a position that is audible and accessible. Devices must be checked on a regular basis to make sure that they are in good, fail-safe working condition so as to make sure that they can be relied upon if emergency strike. If you don’t set regular fire alarm testing in the UK, maintenance will very likely be neglected because these systems aren’t always top of mind when it comes to property maintenance. Fire alarm testing, however, isn’t just about connected alarm devices. They should also include fire extinguishers along with other related equipment so as to ensure that everything is working correctly and that they are in line with updated safety regulations.

When it comes to legal obligations, property owners and managers are obliged to conduct fire safety risk assessments on their property to guarantee that proper protocols will be at play and are in place should a fire occur. The Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order of 2005 governs procedures of fire safety risk testing. This regulatory reform requires buildings to have a means of warning in case of fire, be it a whistle, fire alarm or other such devices and alarm systems.

Keep Your Rental Premises Safe and Secure with Electrical Safety Certificate for Landlord

Owning a rental property can be a lucrative source of supplemental income. With it, however, comes many obligations, especially when it comes to the health and safety of your property. Landlords must be well versed in these safety regulations, one of the most critical being electrical safety. The toll for deaths and accidents relating to electrical safety emergencies in the UK number at least 30 (deaths) and 4,000 (injuries) on an annual basis. With these statistics, electrical safety failures are a real and present danger in any property, which is why it is important to secure the right electrical certificates for landlords to protect your property, tenants, as well as your finances from the impact of electrical safety emergencies.

According to law, landlords must make sure that all appliances and electrical installations within their property are safe. According to best practices, all electrical installations, including light fittings, sockets, and the like must be safe during move-in and throughout the duration of a renter’s tenancy. Best practices also dictate that all electrical appliances like washing machines, cookers, and other portable units should be saved and have the CE marking, at the very least. Houses in Multiple Occupation or HMOs must be inspected and tested for electrical safety at least every five years. Securing the right electrical certificate for landlords will protect your property and your tenants from the potential hazards that electrical safety emergencies bring.

Failure to secure a landlord electrical certificate has its legal and financial consequences. When your property is found unsafe by electrical safety standards, you could face fines and penalties, ranging from a £5 000 fine (at least), six months of imprisonment, invalidated property insurance, and potential criminal charges should the electrical safety failure cause injury or death. This is why it is in a landlord’s and property owner’s best interest to secure the right electrical certificates.