New regulations in Northern Ireland require all private rented homes to meet electrical safety standards that came into force from April 1, 2025.

This means that landlords are required to ensure the inspection and testing of every electrical installation in their rented residential properties is carried out by a qualified person at least once every five years.

The Electrical Safety Standards for Private Tenancies Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2024 took effect for new private tenancies from April 1, 2025. For existing tenancies, these regulations have now come into force from December 1, 2025.

All privately rented properties must have a certified electrical safety inspection of the hardwired electrical installation by whichever compliance date applies.

If the inspection identifies an electrical fault, the landlord must take remedial corrective action to ensure the property is compliant with the Electrical Safety Standards Regulations.

Landlords must provide a copy of the most recent Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to:

• The existing tenant within 28 days of the inspection and test.
• New tenants before they occupy the premises.
• Any prospective tenant within 28 days of request.
• The council within seven days of request for a copy.

Landlords must keep a copy of the report to give to the inspector and tester who will undertake the next inspection and test.

Tenants should:

• Check they have been provided with a copy of the latest EICR.
• Report any electrical problems or potential problems which occur during the five-year inspection period to the landlord so that remedial action can be taken.
• Contact your local council if the landlord has not taken remedial action after you have reported a fault.
• Allow access to the property for the electrical safety inspection to be completed by the qualified person, and if necessary, allow further access for remedial work to be completed.

Nick Hayler, chair of the Electrical Safety Roundtable Home Group, said: “These new rules will help to ensure the safety of tenants in Northern Ireland, and it is important that landlords, tenants, councils and electricians are aware of their obligations. It is also essential that qualified and experienced professionals carry out electrical inspections. And any remedial works.”