If you are selling your home or running a commercial property, one of the most important things to know is what an electrical safety certificate is and how important it is to you. When you fail to get this certificate in the UK, it can result in fines, especially for landlords and other property managers. This article will cover extensively what an electrical compliance certificate is, its importance, and whether you need one when selling your home.
What is an Electrical Safety Compliance Certificate?
An electrical safety certificate (eicr certificate) is a document that ensures that all electrical and gas systems in your home are safe for inhabitation. If you are a landlord or are planning on becoming one, you are legally mandated to have an electrical safety certificate and to update it regularly. This document is normally issued by a registered electrician and is subject to inspections every five years.
If you are a landlord or property manager, you must show proof that your building is safe for people to live in according to the Homes Act of 2018, ensuring that all rented properties are safe for inhabitation.
Do I Need an Electrical Certificate to Sell My House?
As a regular homeowner, you don’t necessarily need to show an electrical safety certificate when selling your home to a buyer. It’s not a legal requirement; however, having one might help you sell your home faster since buyers would know that your home’s electrical system and its components are in good form. In some circumstances, your solicitor might request that you fill in a form for your residential property, including sections on the state of your home’s electrical system.
On the other hand, suppose you are a registered landlord or property manager. In that case, you are legally required to have an electrical safety certificate that proves that your property has passed an electrical test and is safe for tenants to inhabit. Some buyers might also prefer to conduct safety tests to meet their preferences or requirements.
Is Your Buyer Asking for an Electrical Compliance Certificate?
Potential buyers might ask you to provide an electrical safety certificate when inspecting your home. But remember that you are not legally required to provide it. It does help and makes buyers more comfortable with making a purchase.
If you want one, you must first contact a qualified electrician, who will conduct a thorough inspection of your home and write a report on the state of its electrical system. This certificate will show that you’ve taken the right steps to mitigate any electrical risks in your home, highlighted any potential dangers, and ensured that your entire electrical system is in perfect condition.
Electrical Certificate for a House of Multiple Occupancy
Suppose you rent properties such as students’ housing or other flats. In that case, you are legally required to conduct routine electrical inspections every 5 years, and a registered electrician must conduct them.
Conclusion
As a homeowner, you wouldn’t be at a loss if you get an electrical safety certificate selling a house UK. While you might not need one when selling your home, it can help you get more buyers and sell your home at a much higher price.