Why does my rental property need an EICR? 

Why does my rental property need an EICR? 

If you’re a private landlord, keeping your property’s electrics safe is an important part of looking after your tenants and staying on top of your legal responsibilities. That’s where an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) comes in. 

What is an EICR? 

An EICR is a detailed inspection and test of the fixed electrical installation within your property. A qualified and competent electrician will check things such as the wiring, sockets, switches, consumer unit and other fixed electrical components to identify any damage, deterioration or potential safety issues. 

It’s essentially a health check for your property’s electrics — giving you a clear picture of their condition and highlighting anything that needs attention. 

Is an EICR a legal requirement for landlords? 

Yes. Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must have the electrical installations in their rental properties inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years. 

Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive an EICR showing the results and whether any further investigation or remedial work is needed. 

What happens if problems are found? 

Your report will use classification codes to identify any issues. For example, C1 means danger is present, while C2 means there is a potentially dangerous issue. If C1 or C2 issues, or further investigation requirements, are identified, the landlord must arrange the necessary work. A C3 code is used where an improvement is recommended but remedial work is not required for the installation to be considered satisfactory. Finally a FI code is used when further investigation is required. FI does not automatically render the certificate unsatisfactory.  

Once any required work has been completed, make sure you keep the relevant paperwork with your property records. 

What do I need to give my tenant? 

Landlords must provide tenants with a copy of the EICR within 28 days of the inspection. A copy must also be provided to a new tenant before they move into the property, and to the local council if requested. 

Keeping your rental property safe 

An EICR isn’t just another piece of paperwork. Regular electrical inspections can help spot potential problems before they become bigger issues, giving you and your tenants greater peace of mind. 

For landlords, it’s a simple way to stay on top of electrical safety, keep your records up to date and make sure your property continues to meet the required standards. 

Not sure when your property’s EICR is due? We can help. Get in touch with the Blue Flame team and we’ll help you keep your rental property safe and compliant.