Issue - meetings

The Assistant Director of Housing Management & Enforcement presented the report to the Board.

Following the formation of the Electrical Safety in Social Rented Homes Working Group in 2021, a consultation in summer 2022 had invited views on proposals to introduce mandatory checks for electrical installation, bringing parity with the private rented sector and requiring mandatory checks of appliances provided by social landlords.

On 25^th June 2025, the UK Government had issued a response to the consultation with the conclusion being there would be: mandatory electrical safety checks at least every 5 years in the social rented sector; and that the requirement of a copy of the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) report be issued to social tenants within 28 days (or to any new tenant before they occupied the property).

A copy of the EICR report could be issued to the tenant in person, by post or electronically.

Mrs. Heather Fretwell returned to the meeting at 12:33 hours.

It was noted the EICR reports were technical in nature with potential confusion for tenants to understand.  Landlords were encouraged to provide a summary sheet or cover letter alongside the report which would explain the contents of EICR reports to tenants.

The Customer Standards and Complaints Officer returned to the meeting at 12:34 hours.

It was proposed the required changes would commence November 2025 for new tenancies and May 2026 for existing tenancies.  The Council would work towards achieving an EICR every 5 years by the end of the 2025/26 financial year.

A brief discussion was held on tenants being able to decorate their homes themselves, though it was noted those typically residing in social housing might still require support.

RESOLVED that the Board note the update.