PRIVATE landlords in Pendle are being told they must meet national standards for electrical safety - or risk having to pay out up to £30,000.

Pendle Council has just agreed to bring in new enforcement powers for landlords of private, rented accommodation in the borough - including Barnoldswick.

It means the authority can now impose civil penalties of up to £30,000 if a landlord does not fulfil their duty in keeping tenants safe.

Councillor Nadeem Ahmed, leader of Pendle Council, said:“There are around 7,000 privately rented homes in Pendle and tenants must have the right protection.

“The new powers mean that our Environmental Health Team can take action on any landlord who is not complying with national safety standards,” he explained.

Sarah Whitwell, Residential Team Leader in Environmental Health added:“There are many good landlords and high quality rented homes in Pendle.

“But homes can have a range of electrical hazards.These can seriously affect a tenant’s health and safety and can even present a threat to life,” she warned.

Tenants can ask to see a copy of the latest electrical safety report on their home, including prospective tenants.

Any tenants with concerns over electrical safety can call the Environmental Health Team on 01282 661008 or email housing.standards@pendle.gov.uk or visit the website: www.pendle.gov.uk/ electricalsafety