Your landlord must keep the electrics safe and have them checked at least every 5 years (an EICR). Here is what that means, the warning signs, and what to do if it is unsafe.
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In short
Your landlord must keep the wiring, sockets and fuse box safe. A qualified person must inspect and test the electrics at least every 5 years, and you should get a copy of the report, the EICR, within 28 days.
This binds private landlords and, since 2025, social landlords too. Sparking sockets, exposed wires or constant trips your landlord ignored are dangerous, and may ground a claim. Call us free on 0800 030 4669.
What the law says
Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, extended to social housing in 2025:
- A qualified person must inspect and test the installation at least every 5 years
- You must get a copy of the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
- Dangerous faults must be fixed, usually within 28 days
On top of that, Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 makes the landlord keep the installation in proper working order at all times, not just at the 5-year check.
Warning signs of unsafe electrics
- Sockets or switches that spark, buzz, feel hot, or are scorched
- Exposed or damaged wiring
- Fuses that keep blowing or trip switches that keep going
- Flickering lights with no other cause
- No working RCD (the safety switch in the fuse box)
What to do
- Report it in writing, and say plainly if you think it is dangerous.
- Ask for the EICR. A copy is your right. None to show? The check may be overdue.
- Immediate danger, a burning smell, sparks, shocks? Treat it as an emergency. The council's environmental health team can also act, free.
- Keep copies of every report, with dates.
Where we fit in
Support for Tenants helps with housing disrepair claims. Unsafe electrics the landlord knew about and left are a serious hazard. Under Awaab's Law, a true emergency like exposed live wiring should be made safe within 24 hours.
If your landlord has ignored it, you may have a claim. Call us free on 0800 030 4669, send the short form, or message us on WhatsApp. See also is my landlord responsible for repairs and where to get other housing help.
Sources
- Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 (legislation.gov.uk)
- Electrical safety standards guidance (GOV.UK)
- Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Section 11 (legislation.gov.uk)
We review every guide at least twice a year and update it when the law changes. If you spot something out of date or wrong, email help@supportfortenants.co.uk.
Reviewed against current housing law for England and Wales as at 24 May 2026. Checked by our SRA-regulated panel solicitors. This is general information, not legal advice for your specific case. Any compensation figures or ranges shown are illustrative only, not a promise; every case is different.
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