For landlords across England, the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is not just a recommendation but a mandatory requirement. This crucial document, often referred to as a landlord's electrical safety certificate provides a snapshot of the electrical installation's condition within your rental property, ensuring it's safe for continued use. Since the full implementation of the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 on April 1, 2021, every private landlord must secure a valid EICR every five years.
Latest Regulations and Landlord Guidance
The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 require:
Mandatory Checks: Landlords must ensure electrical installations in their rented properties are inspected and tested at least every five years by a qualified and competent person.
Report Provision: A copy of the EICR must be provided to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection and to new tenants before they occupy the property.
Remedial Works: If the EICR identifies any "unsatisfactory" ratings (classified as C1 - Danger Present, or C2 - Potentially Dangerous), the landlord must carry out the necessary remedial work within 28 days, or a shorter period if specified. Written confirmation of completion must be provided to the tenant and local authority.
"C3 - Improvement Recommended" findings do not require immediate action but are good practice to address for enhanced safety.
What an EICR Covers:
A thorough EICR involves a detailed inspection of:
Consumer Unit (Fuse Box): Assessment of its condition, protective devices, and RCDs (Residual Current Devices).
Wiring: Checks for signs of deterioration, damage, correct installation, and compliance with current standards (BS 7671, 18th Edition of IET Wiring Regulations).
Accessories: Inspection of sockets, switches, and light fittings for damage or defects.
Earthing and Bonding: Verification of adequate earthing and bonding throughout the property.
Overall Safety: An assessment of the electrical installation's overall safety and suitability for its intended use.
Guidance for Landlords
Engage Qualified Professionals: Only use electricians who are registered with a government-approved scheme provider (e.g., NICEIC, NAPIT, Elecsa). Always ask for proof of their qualifications and current registration.
Understand the Report Codes: Familiarize yourself with the classification codes (C1, C2, C3, FI - Further Investigation) on an EICR. C1 and C2 require urgent action.
Prioritize Remedial Work: Do not delay in addressing any "unsatisfactory" findings. Document all remedial work, including dates and who carried it out.
Record Keeping: Maintain a clear record of all EICRs, remedial work, and any other electrical safety documentation.
Communicate with Tenants: Provide the EICR copy promptly and explain any findings that might affect them.
Pricing Table for Electrical Safety Certificate (EICR)
Property SizeAverage Cost (UK)NotesStudio / 1 Bed Flat£100 - £180Simpler installations, fewer circuits2-3 Bed House / Flat£150 - £250Most common, more circuits, potential variations4+ Bed House / Larger Property£250 - £400+Cost increases with size and complexityCommercial PropertyVaries widelyPriced per circuit or by project scope
Export to Sheets
Latest News: Local authorities are increasingly empowered to take enforcement action against non-compliant landlords, including imposing fines of up to £30,000. This underscores the importance of stringent adherence to EICR regulations for all private rented properties.
For Further Reading:
Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/electrical-safety-standards-in-the-private-rented-sector-guidance-for-landlords-tenants-and-local-authorities