Landlord visit - is it compulsory?

[EmeraldEyelashes]

Hi I hoped someone might be able to answer this, I’ve looked online but can’t find much just vague info.

I rent privately via a lettings agent and once a year a representative from the company comes to check the property. I’ve just heard from them and the guy wants to come this week to do a full check which takes about an hour.

I also have to have gas and electric safety checks this week and have been told they’ll take approx 2 hours in total. I understand these are essential, however would I be unreasonable to ask that they wear a mask?

I really don’t feel ok about the annual check though, we are in a hotspot with 60 cases per 100k. I’m not shielding BUT I do have a medical condition which could be dangerous with Covid due to the medication I take. I haven’t let any family members in this house for 6 months now and am extremely careful, I also have a child who may be affected more seriously by the virus.

Is there anyone who can say whether I legally have to let this visit go ahead? Thank you!

Thanks @R1R2 that’s interesting and makes sense about home owners being shocked if they haven’t had them checked.

It took half a day last time they came and did this two years ago so yes I think 90 mins is ambitious! I haven’t got any choice anyway, I’ve been told firmly to allow access as a matter of urgency. So am waiting to hear from the electrician now.

An hours inspection is ridiculous and I would be objecting in writing to that. They are inspecting the property and not your standards of housekeeping. I hear so many tenants speaking about "passing" inspections as though they were some kind of competition. Tenants need to push back against this kind of thing.

A quick visual check, where you point out anything that you feel needs replacing or is not working correctly, is sufficient.