UK Landlord Trying to Deduct Deposit for Unnecessary Electrician Test.

[Wingo123]

Hi everyone,

I recently moved out of my rented property, and as expected, my landlord is attempting to withhold a significant portion of my deposit. One of the charges she's insisting on is £300 for an electrician to conduct an EICR test.

Here's the situation: I'm a qualified electrician, and during my tenancy, I simply swapped the upstairs bedroom light with the living room light. I didn't tamper with any wiring; I only changed an accessory. My understanding is that no certificate is required for this kind of minor change, as there were no alterations to the wiring.

I've tried explaining this to my landlord, but she's adamant about the charge. Now, I've escalated the issue and filed a dispute with TDS (Tenancy Deposit Scheme). However, I'm hoping to get some additional confirmation and possibly a reference to the regulations that support my stance.

Can anyone confirm if I'm correct in my understanding? And perhaps provide a specific part of the regulations that backs up my argument?

Thank you in advance for any advice or insights you can offer!

 

[Brian Taylor]

Yes, they are trying to charge me £300+ for a new EICR as I swapped over 2 lights. I agree with you. It seems like they are trying to get the money to get it done now instead of having to pay themselves next year.

Would a Minor Works certificate not be in order.....only one page just related to the circuit in question...hence a lot less money?