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<p>All landlords are required to keep their property safe and we expect that to include
regular checks of the electrics.</p><p> </p><p>The Department’s Fire Kills campaign
promotes electrical fire safety messages to all households. This campaign includes
Electrical Fire Safety Week which this year ran from 10-16 November. The week is specifically
designed to raise awareness of the importance of electrical safety and endorse the
message that installations should be checked every five years.</p><p> </p><p>Electrical
hazards are also included in the health and safety rating system. Under the system
local authorities have strong powers to inspect properties and make sure they are
safe, healthy and free from harm. Powers are available to local authorities where
serious hazards are found in properties, including prohibiting use of the dwelling;
undertaking the works directly themselves; and prosecuting the landlords, if necessary.
The system provides an important safety net, ensuring that homes are safe and decent.</p><p>
</p><p>In addition we are currently looking into the related issue of whether to require
the installation of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.</p><p> </p><p>The Government
is committed to ensuring that tenants have confidence that the homes they are renting
are safe and decent. We are using, and will continue to use, a variety of approaches
to improve standards in the private rented sector.</p>
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