Electrical Regulations for Landlords

• Rental properties are protected by electrical regulations for landlords.house image by bright from Fotolia.com
  
  Landlords must ensure that rental homes are safe for human habitation, keeping the rental unit up to code in terms of electrical, plumbing and other government regulations. Faulty electrical wiring can lead to tenant injuries, property damage and the potential for legal liability. While electrical regulations may vary by state, general guidelines and regulations help ensure that people and property remain safe.
  
  

Electrical Installation

• Electrical regulations commonly require landlords to ensure that electrical equipment is safely installed prior to new tenants moving in, according to Demarco Electrical. Any electrical appliances provided by landlords should also be inspected prior to new tenants moving in for safety and compliance. This coincides with National Fire Protection Association fire codes for all residential homes, including rental properties. Anything electrical-related, including lighting, outlets, wiring and electrical equipment, must meet applicable safety laws, according to the Nevada state legislature. These should be maintained in good working order.
  
  According to Residential Landlord, an online information resource for landlords, wiring should not be frayed, plug sockets should be firmly fastened to walls and microwaves should be clean and free from corrosion. Additionally, any washing machines, electrical heaters and central heating appliances should be currently serviced. This coincides with U.S. codes listed by the National Fire Protection Association on their website.
  
  

Reporting Landlords

• Tenants holding leases stipulating that landlords will provide electricity for rental properties may take action if landlords fail to comply, according to the Nevada state legislature. Electrical regulations for landlords stipulate that tenants may file documentation of a breach of contract. If landlords don't comply within 48 hours, tenants may in some cases hire a professional to fix the problem and then deduct the cost from rent.
  
  This process doesn't hold sway in all states, however. Tenants may want to check with a tenant rights group before taking action. In some states, such as Nevada, tenants may also withhold rent in instances where landlords fail to meet electrical regulations.
  
  

Periodic Inspection Reporting

• Periodic inspection reporting helps landlords ensure that they're meeting current electrical regulations for rental properties, according to the electrical enterprise Demarco Electrical in an article titled, "Advice for Landlords and Letting Agents." While not all jurisdictions include periodic inspection reporting, Demarco Electrical still recommends that landlords undertake periodic inspection reporting to prove due diligence in the event of a property fire. In some cases, lack of due diligence may lead to an insurance company denying a claim, according to Demarco Electrical. This coincides with regulations outlined in the California Department of Consumer Affairs.
  
  

Penalties

• Landlords may face penalties for failing to meet electrical regulations, according to Demarco Electric and the California Department of Consumer Affairs. Penalties may include fines, imprisonment or civil damages.