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THE ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT (SAFETY) REGULATIONS 1994

Commencement: The Electrical Equipent Regulations came into Force on January 9th 1995.
Because the regulations operate with the same definition of 'Supplier' as the consumer protrction act, then letting agents / landlords in the course of business are liable as suppliers. The Regulations impose the obligation on the supplier of such goods to ensure they are safe, as defined by section 19 of the act - so there is no risk of injury or death to humans and pets, or risk of damage to property. The regulations cover all mains voltage household electric goods including cookers, kettles, toasters, fridge, freezer, washing machines and so on.

WHY A LANDLORD MUST HAVE THE ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION CHECKED & PORTABLE APPLIANCES TESTED REGULARLY.
DUE DILIGENCE
Section 39 of the Act provides a defence of 'due diligence'. The section provides that it shall be a defence to show that a person took all reasonable steps and exercised all due diligence to avoid committing the offence. Merely asking the landlord to sign a statement that there are no non-compliant items is not considered to be sufficient in this respect.
PENALTY!
The maximum penalty for non-compliance is a fine of £5000 or six months imprisonment or Both.
RELATED REGULATIONS
Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 Plugs & Sockets (Etc) Safety Regulations 1994
SORCES OF FURTHER INFORMATION
Local Trading Standards Officer
DTI Guidence Notes on the 1994 Regulations
DTI Business in Europe Hotline 0970 1502 500