Connexus have moved to a programme of testing the fixed electrical parts of a property every 5 years. This is to ensure that the electrical installation within your home is safe. We really ask you when you receive a letter informing you that your electrical check is due, that you make an appointment with us as soon as possible. We will work with you and have a number of appointments available.
Health & Safety: Electrical Safety
2nd September, 2021
smellings
Company
What will be inspected and tested?
The ‘fixed’ electrical parts of the property, like the wiring, the socket-outlets (plug sockets), the light fittings and the consumer unit (or fuse box) will be inspected. This will include permanently connected equipment such as showers and extractors.
What will happen in the inspection?
The inspection will find out if:
- any electrical installations are overloaded
- there are any potential electric shock risks and fire hazards
- there is any defective electrical work
- there is a lack of earthing or bonding – these are 2 ways of preventing electrical shocks that are built into electrical installations
We may have to carry out remedial work after the test, or on very rare occasions rewire your property, if the installation is not up to standard.
Tenant Responsibilities
As a tenant, you should feel obliged to flag electrical problems as soon as they appear, as well as maintain any electrical items you bring into the house. If you have a problem with your fixed electrics (plugs, light switches etc) contact us to request an electrician to attend.
You should never try and carry out your own electric repairs
However, there are a number of simple, visual checks that you can carry out yourself:
- Check that you have RCD protection in your fusebox
- Make sure that your plug sockets are not overloaded. Electrical Safety First has developed an online “socket calculator” to help you to check that yours are safe
- Ensure that plugs and sockets are not damaged
- Check that visible cables and leads are in good condition
- Check that your light fittings are not visibly damaged and that downlighters are in good working condition
- Check that you are not storing combustible materials around your fusebox, electricity meter or electrical intake
- Don’t use the top of the microwave for extra storage
- Never trail cables under carpets or rugs
- Never take mains-powered electrical items into the bathroom
- Always switch off your electrical items when they are not in use