Property owners’ electrical installations

Property owners are directly responsible, and legally accountable, for the prevention of electrical safety issues. The UK legal framework - that includes the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and Consumer Protection Act 1987 - places responsibility on property owners to maintain all electrical systems and apparatus, and to retain proof that maintenance steps have been taken. This should include routine inspection by a 'Competent Person' and retention of the condition report provided.

This is where the supply authority connects to the meter and the main switchgear in the premises.

• Remove all stored equipment (spare paint, aerosols, boiler suits, coats and other flammable goods) from around or near the switchgear.
• Make sure a suitable fire extinguisher (typically CO2) is easily accessible and stored in close proximity.
• Make sure a suitable rubber floor mat is in front of the main switchgear.
• Ensure all isolation points are labelled, voltage warning labels are fitted and there is a label on the doorway.
• Make sure the switchroom door is kept locked, labelled and only accessible to skilled or instructed persons.

These are the enclosures throughout the building that contain the protective devices (i.e. fuses, MCBs and RCDs).

• Clear any stored equipment from around or on top of distribution boards.
• Fit insulated blanking pieces to external holes and unused fuseways, and make sure the enclosures are undamaged and securely fitted.
• Ensure enclosures are labelled with a unique number/name and detail of their supply point.
• Ensure the circuit legend is fitted inside or near each distribution board and kept up to date as this will speed up any urgently-required isolations.
• Press the RCD test buttons every six months.

These include light switches, sockets, spur units and local isolation switches.

• Check that lights and switches are not flickering or buzzing as loose or broken wiring is a common cause of fire.
• Do not use socket outlets, spur units or lights that show signs of damage, and replace any missing fixing screws.
• Make it common practice to ensure socket outlets are switched off before plugging appliances in. High current appliances (e.g. kettles) can damage sockets, so check for signs of arcing or overheating.
• Never overload sockets. Remove any socket adaptors as they can become overloaded in your absence.
• Extension leads should only be used temporarily. Ensure they are in good condition and not hidden (such as under carpet) or used in areas susceptible to damage.

Portable and fixed electrical equipment.

• Make it a habit to turn off appliances when they are not in use.
• Never allow cables to trail over kitchen appliances (e.g. toasters or hobs). Make sure long leads and IEC leads (e.g. kettle leads) cannot come into contact with water or conductive parts.
• Make sure appliances carry a CE mark, they are undamaged (including the cable and plug) and the correct rating of fuse is fitted.
• Make it a common practice to unplug and visually check the plug, lead and the appliance itself before use.
• Create a register of the portable appliances you provide at the property, and keep a record of testing (also known as PAT testing), repairs and maintenance.

• Any major alterations to fixed wiring needs a formal inspection and condition report by a Competent Person.
• Use a reputable contractor for repairs to your wiring installation.
• If you are having a new circuit fitted, ensure the contractor connects correctly to the supply. It is common for contractors to incorrectly connect the supply to a used MCB/fuse because there is no space in the distribution board to fit a new one. It is acceptable to add a junction box to an existing circuit away from the distribution board, but never an uninsulated connector block.
• Any person fixing something to the wall, excavating indoors/outdoors or working in your roof space runs the risk of damaging the fixed wiring cables, so ensure they are aware of where cables are before they begin work and check them after they have finished their work.
• Think about your wiring when you have alterations to other service areas. Keep cables clear of loft insulation and do not route water pipes near the electrical system.