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Safety: gas, electrical appliances and furniture

Gas

Specific regulations apply to rented property and require that gas appliances and any installation pipe work at the house is maintained in a safe condition and does not pose a hazard to the occupiers. Each appliance must be subject to a safety check at least once every 12 months by a CORGI registered contractor and a proper record kept of the inspection and any repairs / replacements carried out.

Electrical appliances

It is recommended that electrical installations are also inspected and tested at regular intervals by a competent electrician. New circuitry and kitchen / bathroom alterations are now subject to Building Regulation control. Second hand electrical appliances supplied during the course of a tenancy must also be reasonably safe for use and regularly tested. Further advice about these requirements should be sought from an NICEIC (National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting) or an ECA (Electrical Contractors Association) registered electrician.

From April 2006, the Housing Health and Safety Rating System will require that rented dwellings are safe and reasonably free from hazards to the occupiers and their visitors. Poorly maintained gas and electrical installations may constitute a hazard under this system and, depending on their condition, could lead to enforcement action being taken by us to secure repairs.

Furniture

Specific regulations apply to landlords who provide furniture in rented accommodation to ensure it meets the necessary fire resistance requirements.

Associated documents:

• Gas and electrical safety  (0.21 MB)

• Furniture safety in rented accommodation  (0.20 MB)

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