Quick answer
Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must have the fixed electrical installation inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every 5 years. They must give a copy of the EICR to existing tenants within 28 days, to new tenants before they move in, and to the council within 7 days if asked. Any remedial or further investigation work must be done within 28 days, or sooner if the report says so, with written confirmation to tenants and the council.
- Inspection at least every 5 years, or sooner if the report says so.
- Copy to existing tenants within 28 days; new tenants before move in.
- Copy to the council within 7 days of a request.
- Remedial work within 28 days or the shorter period stated.
- Councils can impose financial penalties of up to £30,000.
What the inspection covers
The EICR covers the fixed electrical installation: wiring, sockets, light fittings, the consumer unit (fuse box), and permanently connected equipment such as electric showers and extractor fans. It does not cover portable appliances, although landlords should make sure any appliances they provide are safe. Many landlords arrange portable appliance testing (PAT) as good practice.
Understanding EICR codes
| Code | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| C1 | Danger present. Risk of injury. | Immediate action. Usually made safe by the electrician on the day. |
| C2 | Potentially dangerous. | Remedial work required within 28 days or sooner. |
| FI | Further investigation required. | Investigate within 28 days or sooner. |
| C3 | Improvement recommended. | Not required by the regulations, but worth planning. |
A report with any C1, C2 or FI is 'unsatisfactory'. The landlord must arrange the work, get written confirmation from a qualified person that it is done, and send that confirmation with the original report to the tenant and the council within 28 days of completion.
Deadlines at a glance
| Who | What | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Existing tenants | Copy of the EICR | Within 28 days of the inspection |
| New tenants | Copy of the most recent EICR | Before they occupy the property |
| Prospective tenants | Copy on request | Within 28 days of the request |
| Council | Copy on request | Within 7 days |
| Next inspector | Copy of the last report | When the next inspection is arranged |
| Remedial work | Complete C1, C2 and FI items | Within 28 days or the period on the report |
Choosing a qualified inspector
- Use an electrician registered with a competent person scheme, such as NICEIC or NAPIT, or one who can show equivalent qualifications and insurance.
- Confirm they will inspect and test to the current edition of the wiring regulations (BS 7671).
- Agree access with the tenant, giving at least 24 hours' written notice.
- Ask for the full report, not just a summary, and a quote for any remedial work.
Common questions
Is an EICR a legal requirement for landlords?
Yes, for private rented homes in England under the 2020 regulations. The rules have also been extended to social housing.
How often does a landlord need an electrical certificate?
At least every 5 years, or sooner if the previous report recommends it.
Who pays for the EICR?
The landlord. It cannot be charged to the tenant.
What happens if a landlord does not get an EICR?
The council can serve a remedial notice, arrange the work and recover the cost, and impose a financial penalty of up to £30,000.
Does a new build need an EICR?
A new installation comes with an Electrical Installation Certificate, which can be used in place of an EICR until the next inspection is due, usually 5 years later.
Official sources
We check these pages against official GOV.UK guidance. This page is general information for England, not legal advice for your situation.
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