Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR)

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), sometimes called a landlord electrical certificate, home condition report, or periodic inspection report, is essential for ensuring the safety of a property’s electrical system. It is particularly crucial for landlords, homeowners, and tenants to guarantee the ongoing safety of electrical wiring and fixed installations within the property.

What is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)?

An EICR inspects the condition of the property’s electrical installations, focusing on identifying potential hazards, deteriorations, or non-compliant wiring. This inspection ensures that the property meets the 18th edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) standards, which are crucial for preventing electric shocks, fires, and other electrical hazards.

An EICR checks for:

Overloaded circuits or potential fire risks
Electric shock risks and safety hazards
Defective electrical work
Proper earthing and bonding, critical for shock prevention

Regular Inspection: It’s recommended that an EICR is conducted every 5 years for rental properties or every 10 years for homeowners.

New Requirements Under the Electrical Safety Standards (England) Regulations 2020

Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords have clear obligations to ensure their properties meet these safety standards:

Inspection and Testing: All private rented properties must undergo an EICR every 5 years, performed by a qualified electrician.
Report Documentation: Landlords must retain a copy of the EICR for future reference and supply copies to tenants, local authorities (on request), and future inspectors.
Report Distribution: Landlords must provide:
- A copy of the EICR to existing tenants within 28 days of inspection.
- A copy to new tenants before they move in.
- A copy to prospective tenants within 28 days if requested.
Remedial Work: Any hazards identified as Code 1 (danger present) or Code 2 (potentially dangerous) must be remedied within 28 days, or sooner if specified. Remedial work must be confirmed in writing and shared with tenants and local authorities if requested.
Classification Codes on EICR:
- C1 (Danger Present): Requires immediate correction for safety.
- C2 (Potentially Dangerous): Requires prompt remedial action.
- FI (Further Investigation): Requires immediate investigation.
- C3 (Improvement Recommended): Not mandatory, but improves safety.

Failure to comply may result in enforcement actions, including fines up to £30,000.

Which Properties Are Affected?

These regulations apply to nearly all rented properties in England where tenants have a right to occupy as their primary residence and pay rent, covering assured shorthold tenancies and licenses to occupy. Exemptions include social housing, lodgers, long leases (7+ years), student housing, and healthcare accommodation.

What Does the Inspection Involve?

The inspection covers all ‘fixed’ electrical parts of the property, including wiring, socket outlets, light fittings, and the consumer unit (fusebox). It does not cover portable appliances (cookers, fridges, etc.), but Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is recommended for landlord-provided items to ensure additional safety.

Remedial Work and Follow-Up Inspections

If the EICR identifies any required remedial work, we can provide guidance on the necessary repairs and carry out the work to ensure compliance. Once completed, a new EICR or written confirmation of compliance will be issued to document the property’s updated safety.

How We Can Help

At MKR Electrical Services, we work closely with landlords and estate agents to conduct EICRs, identify necessary remedial actions, and complete any required work. Our certified team ensures each property meets current regulations, providing peace of mind and full compliance.

For expert advice, to schedule an EICR, or to discuss remedial services, please contact us directly.