Every property is different, so requirements to meet safety legislation can vary with each one. Below is a list of all the certificates available - you may not need every one of the certificates and alarms. Contact us for a safety certificate tailored to your individual needs.
Requirements:
- One smoke alarm in every circulation space – hallways/landing
- One smoke alarm in the principal living room
- One heat alarm in every kitchen
- Alarms must be interlinked meaning they are wired together
- There must be at least one alarm on each floor of the property
- Each alarm must be mains powered with battery backup
The minimum requirement for smoke and heat alarms is outlined in the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006: Scottish Government Guidance on Satisfactory Provision for Detecting and Warning of Fires.
The Gas Safety Certificate checks the condition of all gas appliances in the property.
Requirements:
- Gas Safety Certificate to be carried out annually
- Certificates must be kept for 2 years and a copy given to tenants
CO alarms must be fitted in all properties containing a combustion device (gas, oil or solid fuel – except those used solely for cooking) as follows:
- In each space containing an appliance (if a cupboard may be outside the cupboard)
- In each bedroom or living room where the flue from an appliance passes through
- Alarms should be powered by batteries designed to last the life of the alarm
- Alarms can be mains powered but not plug in types
- Alarms must be fitted to meet the relevant British Standard
The requirement for Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms is outlined in the Scottish Government Statutory Guidance for the Provision of Carbon Monoxide Alarms in Private Rented Housing.
The EICR checks the overall condition of the electrical installations within the property.
Requirements:
- EICR to be carried out a minimum of every 5 years
- Keep certificates for 6 years and a copy given to tenants
Requirements for electrical safety are outlined in the Scottish Government Statutory Guidance on Electrical Installations and Appliances in Private Rented Property.
Your EPC is a rating of the property’s energy efficiency. All rental properties require a valid EPC before they can be marketed for rent.
If you have recently purchased your property, the EPC will be included in the home report. EPCs are valid for 10 years. Check the Scottish EPC register to find out if your property already has a certificate.
If required, we can arrange an EPC on your behalf. The price currently charged by our contractor is £47.50 +VAT.
The PAT checks the safety of all portable appliances in the property including white goods, even when they are integrated.
Requirements:
- PAT to be carried out annually
- Keep certificates for 6 years and a copy given to tenants
The Legionella Risk Assessment assesses the tenants risk of exposure to Legionella bacteria when living in the property.
Landlords are required to do the following or appoint someone competent to do it on their behalf:
- Understand legionella bacteria and Legionnaire’s disease
- Be able to identify & assess sources of risk
- Manage those risks
- Prevent and control any risks
- Keep records and carry out any legal duties
Our understanding is that landlords or their appointed contractor should:
- Carry out a risk assessment
- Manage, prevent and control identified risks
- Periodically review the risks
The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) is responsible for the legislation in this area and more information can be found here:
Part 2: The control of legionella bacteria in hot and cold water systems - see page 45.
Outbreaks of Legionnaire’s disease are rare but they are often fatal and it is, therefore, essential to consider your obligations carefully.
Find out more about Legionella: A Landlord’s Guide