Electrician presenting a landlord electrical safety certificate to a property owner in a Manchester rental home
Legal Requirement

Landlord Safety Certificates

Legally required electrical safety inspections for landlords across Manchester. Protect your tenants, stay compliant with the 2020 regulations, and avoid fines of up to £40,000 with our professional landlord certificate service.

The 2020 Regulations Explained

The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 require all private landlords to have the electrical installations in their properties inspected and tested by a qualified and competent person at least every 5 years.

This applies to almost all rented homes in England, including licences to occupy and student lettings, and the rules were extended to the social rented sector in 2025. The regulations are enforced by local housing authorities, who have the power to impose financial penalties and arrange remedial action.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Local authorities can impose fines of up to £40,000 per breach, raised from £30,000 on 1 November 2025. They can also carry out remedial work themselves and recover the cost from you.

June 2020 – New Tenancies

The regulations came into force for all new tenancies in England. Landlords must ensure electrical installations are inspected and tested before a new tenancy begins.

April 2021 – Existing Tenancies

The regulations extended to all existing tenancies. Every private rental property in England must now have a valid EICR.

Every 5 Years – Renewal

Inspections must be carried out at least every 5 years, or sooner if the previous report specifies an earlier date.

At Change of Tenancy

A copy of the most recent report must be provided to new tenants before they occupy the property.

Your Obligations as a Landlord

Understanding your responsibilities under the 2020 regulations

Arrange Inspections

Ensure electrical installations are inspected and tested by a qualified electrician at intervals of no more than 5 years.

Obtain the Report

Obtain a report from the inspector detailing the results of the inspection and any remedial work required.

Provide to Tenants

Supply a copy to existing tenants within 28 days, to new tenants before they move in, and to the local authority within 7 days on request.

Complete Remedial Work

If the report identifies any urgent remedial work (C1 or C2 codes), complete it within 28 days or as specified by the inspector.

Keep Records

Retain a copy of the report until the next inspection is due. Keep records of all remedial work carried out.

Confirm Compliance

Provide written confirmation to the local authority that any required remedial work has been completed, within 28 days of completion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Areas We Cover

We provide landlord safety certificates across Denton, Tameside, Stockport and the wider Greater Manchester area — find your local team below.

Book Your Landlord Certificate Today

Stay compliant, protect your tenants, and avoid costly penalties. Steels Electrical provides fast, affordable landlord safety certificates across Manchester.

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