· The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998
“The Gas Appliances (Installation And Use) Regulations 1998” requires all gas appliances in rented properties to be checked by a Gas Safe registered gas installer annually. Any faults found must be promptly rectified (also by a Gas Safe registered gas installer) and detailed records kept. A copy of a current inspection certificate together with evidence that remedial work (if any) has been carried out must be left at the property.
· The Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994
Every portable electrical appliance must be tested to ensure it is safe unless brand new and proof of purchase can be supplied. A report from a bona fide electrician on legitimate headed paper must confirm all the items have been tested and are safe. Defective plugs and frayed flexes must be replaced and any appliances failing the test must be removed. Instructions regarding the safe operation of appliances must be supplied.
· The Furniture And Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 (As Amended In 1989 And 1993)
All soft furnishings supplied must be fire retardant. The regulations apply to beds and mattresses, headboards, sofa beds, futons etc, nursery furniture, garden furniture, scatter cushions and seat pads, pillows, bean bags, loose and stretch covers for furniture. Compliant items will be labeled. Bed bases and or mattresses should carry the label “BS 7177.” All other soft furnishings should carry the label “CARELESSNESS CAUSES FIRE”.
The legislation may seem daunting but compliance need not be expensive. We deal with this every day on every property we let. The regulations must be taken seriously but as a professional letting agent we will guide and help you to ensure that you comply and that your property is safe.
Replacing non - compliant furnishings or electrical appliances is NOT always necessary - we let many properties without soft furnishings and or certain electrical appliances.
· Smoke Detectors
The installation of at least one smoke detector on every floor is recommended. Battery powered smoke detectors often cost less than £10 each and may save lives. All new homes built after June 1992 must be fitted with mains operated smoke detectors on every floor.