EICR Meaning Simplified for Landlords

Being a landlord comes with plenty of responsibilities. What should be at the top of your priority list? Making sure your property is safe for your tenants. With all the rules and regulations you need to follow, electrical safety might seem like just another item on your list.. But it’s actually one of your most important duties – and getting it wrong could cost you up to £30,000.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) in clear, straightforward terms.

The Legal Requirements

What is an EICR? It is your property’s electrical safety certificate. A qualified electrician will inspect and test everything to make sure it meets current safety standards. You’ll need this done at least every five years – it’s not optional.

Since June 2020, all private rental properties in England must have a valid EICR. This requirement marks a significant change in rental property management, putting electrical safety at the forefront of landlord responsibilities. The law requires testing every 5 years by a qualified electrician, making regular inspections part of your long-term property maintenance strategy.

Your role as a landlord extends beyond just booking the inspection. You also need to:

• provide a copy of the EICR to your tenants within 28 days of the inspection.
• provide new tenants should receive their copy before they move in.
• keep a copy for record keeping – you’ll need it for future reference and compliance checks.

The Inspection Process

What is checked during an EICR inspection?  It starts with a visual assessment of your electrical installations. Your electrician checks every socket, light fitting, and switch for damage or wear. They’ll spot exposed wires, burn marks around sockets, or outdated wiring that needs attention.

Next comes the technical testing, where your electrician checks:

• Overloaded Electrical Installations: The property’s circuits are checked to see if they can handle power demands safely. Each circuit has limits, and exceeding them creates serious safety risks. When circuits get overloaded, they can overheat and cause fires. The electrician tests each circuit’s capacity and identifies any signs of strain.
• Previous Electrical Work: Signs of poor installation or unauthorized modifications are checked. They check if past work meets current safety standards. This includes examining junction boxes, checking wire connections, and testing circuit protection devices. Finding and fixing substandard work prevents future problems.
• Earthing and Bonding:  These systems protect people from electric shocks by creating safe paths for excess electricity. It needs proper installation and maintenance to work effectively. Your electrician will verify these crucial safety features work correctly.
• Electric Shock Risks and Fire Hazards: This includes checking for loose wires, damaged sockets, and other potential dangers.

This comprehensive approach helps prevent electrical accidents before they happen.

Here’s something important to note: The EICR only covers fixed electrical systems. That means things are permanently wired into your property. It doesn’t include portable appliances like refrigerators, Washing machines, Electric ovens, Portable heaters, etc.

For these items, you might want to consider separate PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) if you provide them to your tenants. If tenants bring their own appliances, they’re responsible for those.

In addition, if you’ve got a new build or recent electrical work: an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) is provided and is as good as an EICR for the first five years.  Further EICRs are not required until the next five years.

Preparing for Your EICR

Smart preparation can save you time and money.

Finding the Right Professional

Your choice of electrician matters. Look for professionals registered with recognized bodies like NICEIC, ELECSA, or NAPIT. These registrations prove they understand current regulations and can perform accurate tests. Ask about their experience with rental properties – EICR requirements differ from regular home inspections.

Do your own Homework

Start by conducting your own visual inspection several weeks before the scheduled test. Take note of obvious issues like:

• Loose or damaged sockets and switches
• Scorch marks around outlets which signal potential overheating
• Signs of frayed wiring or discoloration

Gather documentation about previous electrical work, including certificates from any recent installations or repairs.

These simple checks help you fix problems before they affect your EICR results.  

Get the Property Ready

Make sure your electrician can access all parts of the property. Clear storage away from electrical points and provide access to loft spaces or basements.

Notify your Tenants

Let your tenants know about the scheduled inspection and possible temporary power interruptions during testing. This preparation shows professionalism and helps the inspection run smoothly.

Understanding Test Results

Your EICR report uses a clear coding system for issues:

• C1 indicate dangerous conditions requiring immediate action.
• C2 findings show potentially dangerous situations needing quick attention
• C3 notes suggest improvements but aren’t mandatory fixes.

When you receive the report, read it carefully.  Create a plan to address any issues, prioritizing C1 and C2 problems. The law gives you 28 days to make most repairs, but dangerous conditions need immediate attention.

Managing Failed Inspections

If your property fails inspection, stay calm and methodical. Review the report with your electrician to understand exactly what needs fixing. Get detailed quotes for necessary work and schedule repairs promptly. Some issues might need multiple visits or specialist contractors.

Keep records of all repair work and get certificates for completed fixes. Send copies to your local authority if they requested them. This documentation proves you’re addressing problems responsibly.

Compliance and Consequences

Local authorities take EICR requirements seriously. They can fine non-compliant landlords up to £30,000. Beyond fines, authorities might ban you from renting your property until you meet safety standards. These penalties make proper electrical maintenance crucial for your business.

Costs and Planning

EICR costs vary by property size and location. Basic inspections start around £150 but can reach £300 or more for larger properties. Factor in potential repair costs when budgeting.  

Plan ahead for certificate renewal. Mark your calendar five years from your last inspection date. Start looking for electricians about three months before expiration. This timing gives you flexibility to schedule the inspection and handle any needed repairs.

Don’t Risk Your Property’s Electrical Safety

A well-maintained electrical system protects your tenants, your property, and your investment. Yes, there’s some cost involved, but it’s nothing compared to the price of getting it wrong – both in terms of safety and legal consequences.

Schedule your next EICR.  Our qualified electricians deliver comprehensive EICR services with clear reporting and swift remedial work. We’ll handle all C1 and C2 issues promptly, ensuring your property stays fully compliant.

We are happy to handle all landlord certifications needs. From EICRs to Gas Safety and EPCs, we’ve got you covered. 

Trust our expertise to keep your property safe and compliant. Because electrical safety isn’t just about following rules – it’s about protection that matters.

Larger or older properties may cost more due to the increased time and effort required for a thorough inspection. Additionally, if any remedial work is needed following the EICR, you’ll need to factor in those costs as well.

If you’re a residential landlord renting out a flat, house, or any type of dwelling, you need to have a valid EICR in place. The same goes for commercial property owners and businesses operating from rented premises. Even if EICR testing isn’t strictly required for your specific property type, it’s still highly recommended as a proactive safety measure.

Absolutely! In fact, tenants have the right to request a copy of the EICR from their landlord. It’s a great way for them to have peace of mind about the electrical safety of the property they’re living in.  Responsible landlords should be proactive in providing EICRs to give tenants peace of mind and demonstrate their commitment to maintaining a safe living environment.