Electrical Safety in Rental Properties: A Landlord’s Guide

Rental Advice from Ancora Real Estate Specialists

When it comes to renting out a property in South Africa, electrical safety isn’t just good practice—it’s the law. Whether you’re a first-time landlord or an experienced property investor, ensuring your property is electrically compliant is essential to protect your tenants, your property, and yourself from potential risk.

Here’s what every landlord should know about managing electrical safety in a rental home:

Why Electrical Compliance Matters

Before a property can be leased, the landlord must obtain a valid Electrical Certificate of Compliance (CoC). This certificate confirms that the property’s electrical installation complies with South African National Standards (SANS 10142).

Why a CoC is important:

• Confirms that all electrical systems—wiring, sockets, and distribution boards—are safely installed.

• Protects landlords from legal liability if an electrical fault causes injury or damage.

• Ensures your property meets the legal standard required for rental.

  
  

How to get a CoC: Only a qualified and registered electrician may inspect your property and issue a CoC. At Ancora Real Estate Specialists, we can connect you with trusted, certified professionals who can carry out inspections efficiently and professionally.

Landlord Responsibilities: Keep It Safe and Compliant

As a landlord, you have an ongoing duty to maintain a safe electrical environment for your tenants. Your key responsibilities include:

• Maintaining electrical installations: Regularly ensure that switches, sockets, and wiring remain in good working order.

• Responding quickly to issues: If a tenant reports an electrical problem, arrange for professional repairs immediately.

• Repairing or replacing faulty fixtures: Items such as damaged light fittings or faulty geysers should be addressed promptly by a qualified electrician.

• Ensuring compliance: All electrical work carried out on the property must meet national safety regulations.

What Tenants Need to Know

While landlords are responsible for providing a safe electrical installation, tenants also play a role in maintaining safety:

• Report problems early: Tenants should immediately report any electrical faults, damage, or hazards to the landlord or managing agent.

• Use electricity responsibly: Tenants should avoid overloading sockets or attempting any unauthorised electrical modifications.

By maintaining open communication, both parties can ensure a safe and compliant living environment.

Common Electrical Issues to Watch For

Being proactive can prevent serious electrical hazards. Keep an eye out for these warning signs:

• Frequent circuit breaker trips – could indicate faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or a malfunctioning appliance.

• Flickering lights – often a symptom of loose wiring or voltage fluctuations.

• Faulty geysers – may pose serious safety and water damage risks if left unchecked.

• Exposed or damaged wiring – always treat this as urgent and have a qualified electrician attend immediately.

Common Electrical Issues to Watch For

Being proactive can prevent serious electrical hazards. Keep an eye out for these warning signs:

• Frequent circuit breaker trips – could indicate faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or a malfunctioning appliance.

• Flickering lights – often a symptom of loose wiring or voltage fluctuations.

• Faulty geysers – may pose serious safety and water damage risks if left unchecked.

• Exposed or damaged wiring – always treat this as urgent and have a qualified electrician attend immediately.

Best Practices for Ongoing Compliance

Protect your tenants and your investment with these proactive measures:

• Schedule regular inspections: Arrange a professional electrical inspection every two years—or sooner if issues arise.

• Hire only qualified electricians: DIY electrical work is dangerous and illegal; always use a registered professional.

• Educate tenants on safety: Provide basic safety reminders and guidance on responsible electrical use.

By maintaining compliance and addressing issues promptly, landlords not only reduce risk but also preserve the long-term value and functionality of their property.

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Partner with Ancora Real Estate Specialists

At Ancora Real Estate Specialists, we go beyond property management. We partner with landlords to ensure their properties are safe, compliant, and well-maintained. Our rental management services include:

• Tenant placement and vetting

• Maintenance coordination and contractor management

• Legal compliance and documentation support

• Ongoing inspections and property care

Renting your property should bring peace of mind—not stress. With Ancora, you can rest assured that your property and your tenants are in expert hands.

Contact Ancora Real Estate Specialists today to discuss how we can help you manage your rental property safely and successfully.