Our approach to managing electrical safety
We have a legal obligation to ensure that the electrical installation in your property is safe. Here’s what you need to know about our electrical safety checks:
- What is a fixed wire test? This test checks the consumer unit also known as fuse board and all permanent connected wiring in your home including earth cables to gas & water supplies. Accessories like sockets, lights & light switches are also checked. All results are recorded on an Electrical Installation Condition Report.
- Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR): The Council observes the recommended best practice of ensuring an EICR is carried out every five years. The test can take between two to four hours to complete.
- How often are electrical checks done? In Council houses, electrical fixed wire tests are carried out every five years. Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is carried out in neighbourhood centres on an annual basis.
- What happens after the test? The test will highlight any defects that require fixing in order to keep your home safe. The engineer will ensure to repair any unsafe defects at the time of testing, if this is not possible the installation will be made safe, arrangements will then be made to carry out any necessary repairs.
- Smoke Alarms: During the electrical safety check, we’ll also ensure that your smoke alarms are present and in working order.
Our Electrical Safety Policy
The below document details how Rotherham Council ensures electrical safety in council homes. It includes information on regular inspections, maintenance standards, tenant responsibilities, and how the Council protects residents from electrical hazards.
Read our Electrical Safety policy
Safety check appointments
It’s important to keep your electrical safety check appointment. If you fail to provide access for the check, we may take formal and legal action to gain access to your property. Any costs incurred from taking formal action will be charged to you.
Support with electrical safety
These safety checks are free in Council houses. It is important to let the engineers into your home when they are scheduled. If you need help understanding this information or have any concerns about electrical safety in your home, contact the Council 01709 336009.
