Block Management
Our experience in dealing with managed common parts started over four year ago when we were appointed to complete the inspections on a large estate in Enfield, Middlesex. Since then we have developed a strong understanding of the requirements of both our Block Management clients and their clients. The inclusion of Housing Associations into our stable has served to further broaden our knowledge.
We understand the challenges which property managers face on a day to day basis. In fact, on a number of occasions we have even invited to offer our experience and expertise in finding solutions to specific problems which were not directly related to our inspection work.
When you instruct The Power Service to conduct your inspections, you can be assured that we will be regarded as extension of your organisation by your clients. That’s why we employ all our engineers, so that they have a vested interest in maintaining the high levels of professionalism which you expect from your own staff.
The Power Service has been providing an electrical and gas inspection and maintenance service for over a decade. We are members of the NICEIC, NAPIT, Gas Safe Register (formerly CORGI) and Safe Contractor. We also hold the Trustmark emblem as members of NAPIT.
The introduction of stringent UK and European safety regulations over the last 10 years, has required us to become increasingly specialised in protecting our clients, by smoothing the path to compliance and removing the risks that lead to civil litigation and prosecution. All The Power Service electrical and gas engineering personnel are IEE 16th & 17th Edition Electricians or Gas Safe Registered and ACS trained.
NICEIC Electrical Installation Condition Reports
What is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is an inspection on the condition of an existing electrical installation, to identify (in order of priority) any deficiencies against the national safety standard for electrical installations.
Why is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) required?
Every electrical installation deteriorates with use and age. It is important for the person responsible for the maintenance of the installation to be sure that the safety of users is not put at risk, and that the installation continues to be in a safe and serviceable condition.
When is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) needed?
It is recommended by the IET that fixed electrical installations should be inspected & tested at least once every five years, dependent on the type of installation and business practice, by a qualified person. If any faults are detected these should be remedied as soon as possible.
EICR Requirements for Communal Areas in Blocks of Flats
Legislation/ Guidance
- Electricity at work regulations 1989
- BS7671:2008 ;IET wiring regulations 17th edition
- Health and Safety at work etc Act 1974
- Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
It may be argued that common areas are not “at work” but if any cleaner, gardener, managing agent or repair contractors enters them, then relevant health and safety inspections must be completed and documented. The courts and the Health and Safety Executive do consider common parts of blocks of flats as included in health and safety regulations.
The Corporate Manslaughter Act of 2007 has made quite clear that directors of resident management companies can be prosecuted under criminal law for serious breaches of Health & Safety law.
Emergency Lighting
Emergency Lighting Testing and Maintenance
The regulations appertaining to emergency lighting stem from the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 for sleeping accommodation. Whilst it may seem strange to categorise the common parts of private self contained dwellings as sleeping accommodation, the inference is placed on the fact that individual flats have sleeping accommodation which, in the event of a fire, would require evacuating into the common parts. Hence the requirement for emergency lighting in the common parts.
Any block which has an existing emergency lighting system, presents a mandatory requirement to ensure that the system and individual luminaires are tested and drained on an annual basis. This must be performed by a qualified electrician, as certain tests are required to be applied to the circuitry supplying the lighting system.
Fire & Smoke Alarms
Fire and Smoke Alarm Testing & Maintenance
The regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 clearly underlines the requirements for the testing and maintenance of fire detection systems.
If you fail to properly maintain your fire alarm, smoke detectors and other component parts of your fire detection system, to the standards as required iby BS5839, then you may be in violation of health and safety regulations, local authority guidelines, European legislation and even the terms of your insurance. This may subsequently invalidate any claim which you might make in the event of a fire.
The Power Service will consult with you to ensure that we implement a test and inspection regime which not only meets with your requirements, but also ensures your compliance with the relevant laws and insurers requirements.
