A Landlords Guide To Electrical Safety And Requirements
As
a landlord, you are responsible for ensuring that your rental property is safe
from any electrical issues. Failure to provide adequate safety measures can
result in costly legal procedures, warns Bighorn Rentals.
In
today’s post, we’ll share with you everything you need to know about electrical
safety and requirements.
Common Signs of Electrical Issues in A
Rental Property
- Circuit breaker problems
While occasional tripping is normal, repeated
ones may mean trouble.
- Rodent droppings
Rats and mice love to chew on electrical
wiring and damaged or frayed wiring is definitely a fire hazard
- Hot ceiling fixtures
This could be a sign of insufficient
insulation. Also, consider switching to LED or fluorescent bulbs, as these
don’t produce much heat like incandescent bulbs which can pose a potential fire
hazard.
- Broken light switches and loose
outlets
If outlets or switches stop working or
only work intermittently, then this could be a sign that wires are loose. If
that’s the case, this cannot only create a potential for electrical shock, but
it can also be a potential fire hazard.
- Flickering lights
Flickering lights are a sign of a power
surge. And they can take a toll on your electrical fixtures as well as your
appliances.
- Buzzing sounds
Do your switches and outlets give out
buzzing or sizzling sounds? If they do, consult a professional electrician
immediately.
- Warm or sparking switches and outlets
If your light outlets are sparking or are
warm, consider having them inspected by a qualified electrician.
- Counterfeit electrical products
Another common cause of electrical
problems is the use of counterfeit electrical products. It goes without saying
that these can be incredibly dangerous.
- Arc faults
These are a frequent cause of electrical
fires. Fortunately, you can prevent them by installing an arc-fault circuit
interrupter (AFCI) device.
- Unfamiliar or funny odors:
New appliances often produce an unfamiliar
odor upon being installed. The reason is usually superficial, as it could be
the appliance’s paint or finish. However, should a strong odor come off an
electrical outlet, unplug anything it connects to and call a qualified
electrician.
What
are the Basics of Electrical Safety for Landlords?
Wondering
how to protect yourself as a landlord? If so, wonder no more. The following are
some practical steps you can start taking right now.
1.
Inspect appliances regularly
Some
of the common appliances landlords usually provide their tenants with include
washers, dryers, microwaves, dishwashers, stoves, and refrigerators.
As
a landlord, you need to make sure that each of these appliances is functioning
properly by regularly inspecting them. You can do this together with an
electrician to check for things like faulty wiring, switches, plugs, and cords.
2.
Check smoke detectors
For
landlords, installing smoke detectors isn’t optional in many jurisdictions. Depending
on your state laws, their absence may be against the law.
But
even if your state doesn’t require it, it’s your responsibility as a landlord
to ensure that your tenant lives in a safe and habitable environment. This
means that the property has adequate fire protection systems, including properly
functioning smoke alarms.
Some
of the benefits of installing smoke alarms in your rental property include:
- Alerting you to appliance
issues
- Alerting you to issues such as
humidity and ventilation that can trigger the alarm
- Reducing the risk of damages
- Protecting your tenants
- Protecting your investment
Just
make sure to inspect them regularly to ensure they are functioning properly. According
to experts, smoke detectors should be inspected once every six months.
3.
Regularly inspect various electrical aspects
Regular
electrical safety inspections can sure lower the chances of any incidents. Pick
a licensed and experienced electrician who will ensure everything is working as
it should.
In
case your electrician finds something worrisome, act immediately and get the
problem fixed as soon as possible.
Some
of the various aspects to pay special attention to include:
- Potential for overloading
- Improper wiring
- Fire hazards resulting from
the electrical system
- Faulty connections
- Code violations
How to Hire the Right Electrician for the Job
When
it comes to electrical work, don’t cut corners. Hire a qualified electrician
that’s familiar with the type of work that you want done. The following are
some questions you can ask your potential electrician to gauge their
suitability for the job.
·
What
will you guarantee?
·
Do
I need a permit? Who will obtain it?
·
What
does your estimate include?
·
Will
you provide references (for past jobs similar to mine)?
·
What
special training do you have for this kind of work?
·
Do
you carry any insurance?
·
Are
you licensed? If so, which specific license do you carry?
Electrical
problems are among the leading causes of home fires. In fact, according to a
study conducted by the National
Fire Protection Association, electrical problems are among the top 5 causes
of home fires in the U.S.
Electrical
problems not only damage appliances, but they also pose a risk to life and
property. Keep both your investment and your tenants safe by following these proven
tips!
