We're continuing electrical safety testing in our council homes and sending appointment letters to tenants now due their five yearly safety checks.
Around 7,000 tenants will soon receive a letter with an appointment date and we would urge them to keep this, or if this is not convenient, to reschedule as soon as possible. Details of how to do this will be in their letter.
We’re also reassuring tenants that all testing will follow strict government safety guidance.
We have a legal duty to carry out essential electrical inspections, and tenants are required to provide access when requested to allow these important works to be completed. These checks allow us to examine the condition of the wiring within your home against safety standards, as the wiring can deteriorate or become damaged over time, which could result in electric shock, fire or burns.
Prior to their appointment, tenants should ensure there is clear access to the electrical meter to allow the electricians to complete the safety check.
Raymond Boyd, Project Delivery Manager, said: “These safety checks are vitally important for keeping our tenants and residents safe. This type of testing takes place every five years and is carried out with the minimal of disruption to tenants. So, if you receive an appointment please keep this and ensure access is provided.
“We’re asking tenants to work with us and provide access to allow us to protect them and their homes from fire and give them the peace of mind that their home remains safe.”
There is a small number of tenants who don’t provide access and seem unaware of their, and our obligations to maintain and keep them and their properties safe. As a last resort the council does have legal powers to enforce access if all attempts of co-operation are exhausted.