Safety

EICR and Electrical Safety for Landlords

Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR) requirements, inspection frequency, and what happens if your property fails.

Max fine: Up to £30,000

Deadline: Every 5 years, remedial work within 28 days

Key Facts

EICR required every 5 years for all rental properties
Must be provided to tenants before move-in
C1/C2 codes require remedial work within 28 days
Must be provided to local authority within 7 days of request
Penalty of up to £30,000 for non-compliance

EICR Requirements

Since July 2020, all private rental properties in England must have an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) carried out by a qualified electrician at least every 5 years. The report must be provided to tenants before they move in and to local authorities within 7 days of request.

What Is Checked

An EICR inspection covers the consumer unit (fuse box), all fixed wiring, sockets and switches, light fittings, and any other fixed electrical equipment. The electrician assigns codes: C1 (danger present — immediate action), C2 (potentially dangerous — urgent action), C3 (improvement recommended), and FI (further investigation needed). C1 and C2 codes mean the property is unsatisfactory.

If Your Property Fails

If the EICR identifies C1 or C2 codes, you must carry out the required remedial work within 28 days (or less for C1). You then need to obtain written confirmation from a qualified electrician that the work has been completed, and provide this to the tenant and local authority.

Penalties

Failure to comply can result in a civil penalty of up to £30,000 from the local authority. The local authority can also arrange for remedial work to be carried out and charge the costs back to you. Under the Renters' Rights Act, electrical safety compliance is necessary for valid possession proceedings.