How To Get Your Landlord To Fix An Electrical System Problem

 

When you move into your rented property, you’ll sign a tenancy agreement which forms a contract between you and your landlord. It lays out the legal terms and conditions of your tenancy. And lets you stay in the property as long as you pay the rent on time and follow the rules.

Your landlord is responsible for most of the repairs in the property. And must make sure that electrical appliances and wiring are safe. So, if you’ve got a problem with the electrics you should get in touch with your landlord straight away. See how to get your landlord to fix an electrical system problem here…

Common Electrical Issues

Rental properties are no different from other homes. And electrical faults include:

• Faulty light switches
• Dead socket outlets
• Flickering lights
• Tripping circuit breakers
• Heat coming from switches or outlets
• Light bulbs frequently needing changing
• Exposed wires

Landlords Responsibilities

Look at Landlords and tenants’ rights and responsibilities below. Your landlord should:

• Arrange for an electrical inspection to be performed by a qualified electrician before you move in
• Make sure that regular basic safety checks are carried out on all of your electrical appliances and meet standards BS7671
• Display portable display stickers on plugs with dates tested and when the next inspection is due
• Get a periodic inspection report from an electrician stating the property is safe

Tenants Responsibilities

As a tenant you should:

• Ensure the safety and condition of appliances you bring into the property
• Never overload the power sockets
• Refrain from causing damage to walls which could in turn damage wiring
• Be careful that water doesn’t cause an electrical fault
• Inform your landlord immediately of electrical issues

Time Frames

How long does a landlord have to fix electricity? This will all depend on the issue itself. A faulty outlet, for example, wouldn’t be regarded as an emergency and an electrician would be contacted to arrange the repair within 30 days.

On the other hand, if you can’t use the electricity for long periods of time repairs should be scheduled for as soon as possible. Within two or three days. If you find yourself in the position where you’ve contacted your landlord and your request has been ignored, you can contact your local authority to help.

Procedures

When you’ve got an electrical problem, you must:

• Contact your landlord by telephone
• Follow up by email or letter and keep copies
• Repeat the requests if no action has been taken

In an Emergency

If time is an issue you may have to call in a domestic emergency electrical engineer. You’ll get a quick diagnosis. And the issues you’re having will soon be fixed. You can be sure that your electrician is fully qualified and registered. And will be covered by complete insurance whilst working on your property.

Repair and Deduct Options

If you haven’t caused the electrical problems you may be able to pay for the repair and then deduct that amount from your rent. This is usually done when your landlord hasn’t had the repair carried out and your health and safety are affected.

Be sure to follow the legalities as you need to put requests to your landlord in writing. And give a reasonable amount of time for the work to be carried out. You don’t want to end up battling out the costs in court.

A far better solution is to make sure you read the lease including any clauses that cover the proper use of the electrical system. And understand what are landlords’ responsibilities for fixing electrical systems before you sign.