HHSRS Hazard 23 - Electrical Hazards

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If a tenant reports a property to the Council for a HHSRS Hazard 23 - Electrical Hazards issue, the Council is legally obligated to inspect the property for all 29 hazards outlined in the Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS).

If the Council uncovers any Category 1 risks, it is obliged by law to take action against the landlord and any associated agents. This is not just a formality; it is a serious obligation that must be addressed.

Hazard 23 - Electrical Hazards

This hazard covers hazards from shock and burns resulting from exposure to electricity, including from lightning strikes. (It does not include risks associated with fire caused by deficiencies to the electrical installations, such as ignition of material by a short-circuit.)

By touching metal or other conducting material which is 'live' a person may receive an electric shock. The risk is dependent on a number of factors, the main one being the voltage across the body. An electric shock is experienced when current passes through the body to earth.

Vulnerable Group: Children under 5 years

Defects & Justifications

Electrical installation out-of-date - non-compliance with current requirements.
Number and siting of outlets - inadequate number of, and/or badly sited electrical socket outlets.
Fuses and meters - inappropriately sited fuses and meters.
Earthing - lack of or inadequately earthed electrical system.
Disrepair of installation - including to supply, meters, fuses, wiring, sockets, light fittings or switches.
Presence of water - electrical installations in close proximity to water, including areas of damp.

Lightning protection system - lack of, or defective system to buildings at significant risk of lightning.

Index of HHSRS Hazards

Rectifying the HHSRS Hazard 23 - Electrical Hazards: Guidance Checklist

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How can I make a property's electrical system safer?

Start by ensuring the property has a current Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) from a qualified electrician. Replace any outdated or damaged wiring, fuse boxes, and fittings. Use RCD protection on circuits to minimise shock risk.

What should I do if I find exposed wiring during an inspection?

Exposed wiring should be treated as a serious risk. You should isolate the circuit if necessary and arrange for immediate repairs by a qualified electrician. Temporary coverings are not an acceptable long-term fix.

How do I reduce the risk of electric shock in wet areas?

Install IP-rated fittings suitable for wet zones, and ensure RCD protection is in place. Avoid trailing extension leads or appliances near water sources like sinks, showers, or baths.

What maintenance should be carried out to prevent electrical hazards?

Regular inspections, EICRs every 5 years (or change of tenancy), and visual checks for damaged sockets or overloaded circuits are key. Encourage tenants to report any flickering lights or burnt smells from fittings.

What signs indicate an electrical system may be unsafe?

Look for scorch marks, buzzing sockets, frequent tripping of breakers, or old fuse boards. These issues warrant further inspection and possible rewiring by a competent electrician.