New electrical safety standards for social landlords

12 December 2025

Electrical safety standards regulations are now in force for social landlords. The updated standards for new social housing tenancies took effect on 1 December 2025. For social housing tenancies that started before 1 December 2025, the regulations will come into force on 1 May 2026, with all checks to be completed no later than 1 November 2026.

The regulations require that landlords have the electrics in their rented properties checked at least every five years by a qualified person. Social landlords that provide electrical equipment must also have this tested at least every five years. Landlords must give their tenants proof that they have had installations and equipment inspected, tested and checked. Any recommended remedial or further investigative work must be completed within 28 days, unless the inspection requires a shorter timescale.

Full details can be seen in the government’s updated guidance.

New electrical safety standards for social landlords

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