EICR for landlords: electrical safety checks every five years

Alongside the annual gas safety check, landlords in England have a legal duty to make sure the electrical installation in a rented home is safe. This is done with an Electrical Installation Condition Report, or EICR.

How often do you need one?

Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, the electrical installation must be inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years, or sooner if the report says so.

You must:

• Give a copy of the report to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection.

• Give a copy to new tenants before they move in.

• Provide a copy to the local council within seven days if they ask for it.

What the codes mean

• C1: danger present, immediate action needed.

• C2: potentially dangerous, urgent remedial work required.

• FI: further investigation needed.

• C3: improvement recommended, but not a failure in itself.

A report with any C1, C2 or FI items is unsatisfactory. The remedial work must be completed within 28 days, or sooner if specified, and you must have written confirmation that it has been done.

Tips for landlords

• Book the EICR and gas safety check together where possible.

• Keep copies of every report and certificate.

• Make sure smoke alarms are fitted on every storey.

Book an electrical check

The Essential Connection carries out electrical work across Walton-on-Thames, Weybridge, Cobham, Esher and South West London. Get in touch to arrange a visit.