Fire Alarm Testing – An Easy and Must-Have Process

Taking precautionary measures to reduce the risk of fire that may cause injuries is a vital step for anyone, be it a property owner or landlord giving his property on rent. So, it is mandatory to ensure that a properly functioning fire alarm system is installed in the building or apartment. The kind of system needed, depends on the type of building and its usage. Just like other electrical installations and appliances, an inspection of the fire alarm system regularly, is essential. It shall be noted that you need to get fire alarm testing conducted from certified electricians.

When it comes to the matter of fire alarm test, its frequency depends on the condition of the fire system installed in a building. Of course, the person called for a fire alarm check should have adequate experience in handling various types of fire alarms. Note that the accumulation of dust and other contaminants can cause problems with smoke detectors.

Steps of Fire Alarm Testing:

1. There is a need to test and regulate alarm sensors such as flame and smoke detectors. So, the electrician should have ample understanding of different sensors with their failure modes, testing necessities, and re-installation needs.
2. One should go for simulation of inputs and testing of the annunciators.
3. It is necessary to set sensitivity, which calls for knowledge of the particular system, its specifications and the fire detection theory.
4. Coordinate with the fire department for testing the input to their system.
5. Lastly, check the battery for its corrosion and expiration date.

The best thing about conducting a fire alarm test is that the system should be functional at the time of any emergency. This will help you in taking proper precautionary measures. Indeed, fire alarm systems help in protecting people, property and assets.

Electrical Certificate for Landlords – Safety and Security

A rental house comes with an obligation regarding the safety and security of your property. An electrical certificate for landlords acts as critical evidence that the house and its electrical installations have been adequately examined and tested for safety.

Legal duties as a landlord 

It is the responsibility of the landlords to provide electrical safe rental properties. Consequently, as per law, they are required to ensure a few necessary aspects.

• All electrical installation like plugs, internal wiring, light fixtures in a rented house is safe and in perfect condition when tenants move in.
• Periodic assessment and tests are undertaken by a qualified electrician on your rental properties at least every five years. It also includes safety inspection of Houses in Multiple Occupation or HMOs
• Various electric appliances provided for maintenance and portable units are safe and up to mark.

Safe and Secure Rental Properties 

Landlords must be well versed with various safety regulations required in the interest of your property as well as tenants. Regardless, if a landlord fails to secure an electrical safety certificate, the person will have to face legal and monetary consequences. As per law, if your property is found not compatible with electrical safety standards, you could be imposed on fines and penalties that could range from £ 5,000 fines (at least), six months of imprisonment, and nullified property insurance. And you can be accused of potential criminal charges if electrical safety negligence causes injury or casualty. So, in all cases, an electrical safety certificate landlord is necessary. To stay legitimate, local authorities must be pre-notified for any work that is about to commence. Otherwise, you can hire registered contractors or electricians that will inspect, approve, and issue an electrical certificate. The issued electrical certificate can safeguard you from the financial expense and, at the same time, ensure the security of your property.

The Electrical safety certificates for landlords are fundamental requirements because it is the legal duty of a landlord to get all electrical installations and appliances tested and maintained throughout the occupant’s tenancy. Obtaining the right electrical certificate for landlords will protect your house and your tenants from the possible hazards that electrical safety could result in.