Significant changes to electrical safety regulations for social housing providers in England have officially come into force as of November 2025. These updated rules are designed to improve tenant safety, reduce electrical risks and ensure consistent maintenance standards across all social housing properties.
In this blog, we outline the new requirements, key deadlines and the steps providers need to take to stay compliant, drawing on guidance from GOV.UK.
What the New Regulations Require
The updated legislation sets out several mandatory responsibilities for all registered social housing providers. These include:
1. Five-Year Electrical Safety Checks
Every property must undergo a full electrical inspection at least once every five years, verified by a valid Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).
2. Clear and Accessible Record Keeping
Inspection reports must be properly documented, stored securely and made available to tenants upon request.
3. Regular PAT Testing
Any electrical appliances supplied as part of the tenancy must be regularly PAT tested to ensure ongoing safety and compliance.
4. Faster Responses to Electrical Hazards
Emergency electrical issues must be made safe within 24 hours of being reported.
5. 28-Day Window for Remedial Works
Where faults or hazards are identified during inspections, all remedial work must be completed within 28 days.
When the Rules Apply
The new requirements are being introduced in two stages to help providers manage workloads and plan inspections effectively.
New Tenancies – Effective Immediately (November 2025)
All new tenancies must now have a valid EICR in place before a tenant moves in.
Existing Properties – Deadline: May 2026
Providers have until May 2026 to ensure all existing homes meet the updated requirements. Older buildings and properties with known issues are expected to be prioritised through risk assessment.
A Phased Approach to Compliance
The government’s staged rollout aims to balance safety needs with industry capacity. By focusing on new tenancies first, providers can continue to house tenants while preparing for the larger task of updating existing properties over the following six months.
This phased approach also highlights an important industry trend: demand for qualified electricians capable of carrying out EICRs is increasing rapidly.
Stay Compliant with 2391 Inspection and Testing
To meet the new requirements, providers will rely heavily on electricians who hold the 2391 Inspection and Testing qualification. Recognised by NICEIC and NAPIT, this qualification ensures that professionals are fully trained to carry out electrical inspections to the standards required by the updated legislation.
Our upcoming course date for City & Guilds 2391 Inspection & Testing is 9th–13th February. Click here to secure your place, or call us on 01246 588589.
Course spaces are limited and demand is high. Securing your 2391 qualification now will ensure you are ready to support the sector and meet all new safety obligations.
Read more on the new electrical safety rules on GOV.UK.