In 2020, new regulations came into effect requiring landlords to have all electrical installations inspected and tested by a qualified electrician at least once every five years.
By 2021, these rules were extended to cover all rental properties — meaning nearly every landlord will now be approaching their renewal date within the next 12 months.
What is an EICR inspection?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) assesses the safety and condition of:
· Wiring
· Sockets
· Fuse boards
· All other fixed electrical components
A qualified electrician will inspect the property, highlight any damage, wear, or potential hazards, and grade the severity of any issues found.
If any remedial work is required, it must be completed within 28 days (or sooner, if specified in the report) by a certified professional. The landlord must also obtain written confirmation that the work has been carried out.
Why it matters:
Tenant safety should always come first — but failure to comply with EICR legislation can lead to fines of up to £30,000.
How Long Does an EICR Certificate Last?
According to the British Standards Institute’s BS 7671 regulations, most properties require an EICR inspection at least every five years. This became mandatory for privately rented properties in England as of June 1, 2020, under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations.
However, validity can vary based on:
· Property type
· Condition of the electrical installation
· Environmental factors (e.g., damp, extreme temperatures)
· Inspector’s recommendations
High-risk properties, such as those with swimming pools or commercial elements, may require more frequent inspections, sometimes annually. Inspectors may also recommend shorter intervals (e.g., 1–2 years) if safety concerns are identified.
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What Happens if You Don’t Have a Valid EICR?
Failure to obtain and maintain a valid EICR can have serious consequences:
· Safety Risks: Increased chance of electrical fires, shocks, and other hazards.
· Legal Penalties: Landlords can face fines of up to £30,000.
· Criminal Charges: Persistent non-compliance may result in prosecution.
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Who Needs an EICR Certificate?
An EICR is a legal requirement for all private landlords in England. After obtaining the report, landlords must:
· Provide it to existing tenants within 28 days
· Share it with new tenants before occupancy
· Send it to prospective tenants within 28 days upon request
· Submit it to the local authority within 7 days if requested
· Retain a copy for future inspections
These responsibilities underscore both the compliance and safety aspects of EICRs—and the administrative burden they can create.
Let KBL Electrical handle it for you:
Contact KBL Electrical & Mechanical Services To Discuss Your Requirements
They take the hassle out of EICR compliance by:
· Scheduling inspections directly with tenants or letting agents
· Keeping you updated at every step
· Arranging any necessary repairs
· Issuing your certificate promptly
Avoid last-minute stress, costly delays, or enforcement action. Book early and stay in control.