Electrical safety
A large number of domestic fires are caused by electrical faults. It is vital to look after electrical equipment – just because it works does not mean it is safe.
Inspect your electrical equipment and fittings to ensure they are in good condition:
- The cable should be firmly secured in the plug
- None of the pins should be bent and plugs should not ‘rattle’
- Plug casings should be free from cracks
- Look for burn marks or any signs of overheating
- Plugs should fit tightly into sockets
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How to keep your home safe:
- Never overload sockets or plug adaptors.
- Take care with second hand electrical items, ensure they have been safety checked and are not listed on the product recall register
- If you are concerned about the safety of a product, stop using it and make your concern known to the retailer or Trading Standards office
- Never store combustible materials near your fuse box or electricity meter
- Never take mains power electrical items into the bathroom
- Switch off electrical items which are not in use
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What is Housing 21 doing to manage electrical safety?
Housing 21 is required by law to ensure your property’s electrical installation and wiring is safe when you move in and that it is maintained in a safe condition throughout your tenancy. We test and inspect all properties we manage, including communal areas, at least once every five years and inspect properties before re-letting them to new tenants.
Your manager will make you aware when testing is expected to happen. After testing takes place, any repairs identified through the check will then be carried out.
You should contact your manager if you have any electrical problems within your property and they will arrange for an electrician to come to your home.
