Introduction
We are required by law to check your electrical installation is in good working order, and we will contact you every five years to arrange your free electrical safety check also known as a fixed wire safety check.
A qualified electrician will check your electrical installation, this includes sockets, lights, wiring and the main consumer unit.
Why is an electrical safety check required?
As a landlord, North Tyneside Council has a responsibility and duty to ensure our housing stock is safe for inhabitation. Tenants also have an obligation under their tenancy agreement to allow access for required mandatory maintenance. As electricity is unable to be seen by the naked eye, the electrical safety check ensures any issues are found and can be dealt with.
When will the electrical safety check take place at my property
Each property will require an electrical safety check to be completed within 5 years.
A check will also automatically be carried out when a change of occupancy is to take place.
North Tyneside Council also carries out electrical safety checks following fire incidents, reported intermittent faults, or suspect DIY work that has a danger to life.
We will write to you when your check is due.
Who will carry out the electrical safety check?
A qualified electrician will carry out the check, this may be one of our own in-house technicians or a recognised framework subcontractor.
What access will you need to my property?
We will require access into all areas and rooms. Generally, access is required to all positions of light fittings, light switches, sockets, consumer unit, gas meter, cupboard and loft space locations, and water stopcock. It would be helpful if you could locate the stopcock prior to the visit taking place, and if located in a cupboard, we would appreciate it if you could empty it.
We will also need access to external areas such as gardens or outhouses if electrical work has been completed to such areas.
How long will the electrical safety check take?
It can take up to 4 hours to complete the check.
Will my electricity be turned off?
The electrical supply will be turned off for approx. 1 to 2 hours.
Can I refuse the electrical safety check?
Your tenancy agreement states that you must allow us access to your home for maintenance purposes. If you don't allow the electrical safety check to be completed, this is a breach of your tenancy agreement. This means we can take legal action, and you will be charged for any legal costs accrued during the process.