Overview

This bill mandates regular electrical safety inspections in high-rise social housing in England and Wales. It also establishes a complaints procedure for tenants regarding electrical safety concerns and clarifies the responsibilities of social landlords.

Description

The High-rise Properties (Electrical Safety) Bill requires social landlords of residential dwellings in high-rise buildings (over 18 meters tall with at least two dwellings) to maintain valid Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) for each dwelling. These EICRs must be no more than five years old, cover the entire fixed electrical installation, have a satisfactory outcome, be completed by a qualified person, and use a model form compliant with BS 7671 or an equivalent standard. Landlords must provide tenants with a copy of the EICR and an explanation of the Act's provisions. A complaints procedure is established, requiring landlords to investigate valid written complaints within 28 days and rectify any identified safety issues within a further 28 days. If a landlord deems a complaint invalid, they must notify the tenant within 28 days, explaining their reasoning. The Secretary of State may issue guidance on the bill's application. Non-compliance is an offense punishable by a fine.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly specify government spending. The costs will likely fall on social landlords, potentially affecting their budgets and potentially requiring increased rent or reduced spending elsewhere. No specific figures are provided within the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Social Landlords: Will face increased responsibilities and costs associated with regular EICR inspections, complaint handling, and rectifying any electrical safety issues.
• Tenants in High-Rise Social Housing (England & Wales): Will benefit from increased electrical safety and a formal complaints procedure to address their concerns.
• Electrical Contractors: May see increased demand for EICR inspections and repair work.

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