LEGAL MUSTS FOR BED & BREAFAST ESTABLISMENTS
Any person who lets residential accommodation as a business activity is required by law to ensure the electrical items they provide are regularly tested and safe. This is detailed in the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations Act 1994 and the Health and Safety (Offences) Act 2009 state that any electrical equipment supplied with the accommodation and connected to the mains must be safe. Insurance companies assume that you meet the above criteria and in the event of a claim involving fire, injury or death could delay payment, reduce payment or even refuse to settle a claim involving an unsafe appliance which has not been tested. In the event of an injury or death landlords could be prosecuted and fined up to £20,000.00in a Sheriff Court. Should indictment in a High Court follow there could be an unlimited fine and/or up to two years imprisonment for failing to comply with the above Acts. It is the landlord's responsibility to prove compliance.
Examples of the appliances which should be tested
Lamps, kettles, radios, televisions and where made available for customer usage hobs, washing machines, microwaves, irons and toasters.
Landlords therefore need to regularly PAT test and maintain all electrical appliances as they may become unsafe over time. It is strongly advised to have the PAT testing of equipment carried out on a yearly basis.
Please feel free to contact us for further information or advice or if you should have any questions.
01268 411983