Electrical Safety For Rental Properties

Electrical Safety Rules for Landlords

For landlords, a good relationship with their tenants can define the experience. One of the key aspects of a strong relationship is keeping the property well-maintained. Electrical safety is one of the most critical aspects of this and is also one of the most stringently regulated aspects of property rental.

Let’s examine six electrical safety rules that can help keep landlords on the right side of the law, keep tenants happy, and – of course – ensure the ongoing integrity of the property in question.

1. Regular Electrical Inspections 

Ensuring the electrical safety of a rental property starts with regular inspections. These inspections help identify and address potential hazards before they become serious issues.

•       Key points to bear in mind include:
•       Schedule annual inspections by a certified electrician.
•       Check for wear and tear on wiring and outlets.
•       Ensure all electrical panels and circuit breakers are up to code.

2. Hire Certified Electricians

Getting a buddy who knows a thing or two about electricity might seem like a good idea, but it’s likely to be unlawful.  Using certified electricians for all electrical work ensures that the job is done safely and in compliance with regulations. This prevents future issues and maintains the property’s integrity.

•       Verify the electrician’s credentials and licenses.
•       Avoid DIY electrical repairs or hiring unqualified individuals.
•       Keep records of all electrical work performed on the property.

3. Install and Maintain Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors are crucial for tenant safety and are a legal requirement in many states – as is the case in Texas. The specific regulations can be found in the Texas Property Code, Chapter 92.  Put simply, regular maintenance and proper installation are an essential part of electrical safety.

•       Install smoke detectors in key areas such as bedrooms and hallways.
•       Ensure regular testing is carried out, this can be stipulated in the lease or carried out by the appropriate personnel.
•       Replace batteries at least once a year or as needed.

4. Educate Your Tenants

Providing tenants with electrical safety information helps prevent accidents and ensures they know how to handle potential issues. This also helps to maintain a healthy landlord/tenant relationship, essential if both parties want a positive experience.

Key points to note include:

•       Offer a safety guide upon move-in.
•       Include information about the safe usage of electrical appliances.
•       Encourage tenants to report electrical problems immediately.

5. Upgrade Outdated Electrical Systems

To put it plainly, outdated electrical systems are an accident waiting to happen. This statement is corroborated by a report commissioned by the National Fire Protection Association, the report found that wiring and related equipment were behind an average of 32,160 house fires each year between 2015 and 2019. While faults can occur in new wiring, the risk grows exponentially with the age of the wiring.

Key points to consider include:

•       Assess the age and condition of the property’s electrical systems.
•       Replace old wiring and panels to meet current safety standards.
•       Consider energy-efficient upgrades for added safety and cost savings

Understanding the common causes of electrical fires and how to prevent them is crucial information for landlords and tenants alike. Making sure your electrical system is modernized is one of the most important factors to consider.

6. Utilize Specialized Landlord Software Tools

Software developed specifically for landlords can help to ensure the electrical safety of a property by helping landlords stay on top of maintenance and safety checks. These tools streamline many of the processes that help keep a property well-maintained and safe for habitation.

Key points where this approach is helping include:

•       The use of advanced software can keep track of maintenance tasks including electrical checks.
•       Keep digital records of inspections and repairs.
•       Set reminders for routine safety checks and updates

The importance of advanced software is re-iterated by Landlord Studio co-founder Logan Ransley, who states; “The use of comprehensive property management software is a huge boon to landlords looking to effortlessly maintain safety standards. With features that track maintenance schedules and store important documents, landlords can ensure their properties are safe and compliant.”