How to Get Your Property Ready for an EICR

What is an EICR and why do you need one?

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a legal requirement for all rented properties in England under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020. It checks the safety and condition of your property’s fixed electrical systems to ensure they meet current standards. For landlords, understanding the EICR process is essential for compliance and tenant safety.

An EICR covers fixed wiring, sockets, light fittings, and the consumer unit (fuse box). It does not include portable appliances but focuses on identifying risks such as faulty wiring, ageing components, or inadequate earthing.

Landlords in England, including those in London, must arrange an EICR at least every five years. A qualified electrician must carry out the inspection, and copies must be given to tenants and local authorities upon request. These electrical safety inspections are crucial for maintaining safe and legally compliant properties.

A common misconception is that EICRs are only necessary for older buildings. In reality, modern homes can also develop electrical issues over time, especially with high usage or unregulated electrical work. Regular inspections are necessary for all rental properties, regardless of age.

Remaining up to date with your EICR responsibilities helps ensure your property is safe and that your legal obligations are met. Routine domestic electrical inspections are an essential part of responsible property management and tenant safety.

Legal Requirements for EICRs: What Every Landlord Must Know

Understanding your responsibilities helps prevent legal issues and protects your tenants.

1. Frequency of Inspections
   • EICRs must be conducted every five years.
   • If the report recommends an earlier re-inspection, landlords must follow that advice.
2. Providing the Report
   • A copy must be provided to current tenants within 28 days.
   • New tenants must receive the report before moving in.
   • If requested, the report must be sent to the local housing authority within 7 days.
3. Failure to Comply
   • Landlords can be fined up to £30,000 per breach under the 2020 regulations.
   • Ongoing non-compliance may lead to enforcement action or forced repairs.

These rules apply to nearly all privately rented homes in England. For detailed guidance, consult the official Gov.uk website. Understanding your legal duties helps ensure you meet all EICR requirements effectively.

Pre-Inspection Checklist: How to Prepare Your Property

Getting your property ready in advance helps inspections run smoothly. Use the following checklist to prepare for an electrical safety inspection for rental property:

1. Clear Access
   • Make sure the consumer unit, sockets, and wiring (including areas like lofts or basements) are easy to access.
2. Check for Obvious Issues
   • Look for damaged sockets, exposed wires, or flickering lights.
   • Replace or repair any broken components.
3. Inform Your Tenants
   • Notify tenants about the upcoming inspection in writing.
   • A sample message could read: “Dear [Tenant Name], an electrical safety inspection is scheduled for [Date/Time]. Please allow access to all rooms and electrical points.”
4. Gather Past Documents
   • Collect previous EICRs, Part P certificates, and repair records for review.
5. Hire a Qualified Electrician
   • Choose an electrician registered with NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA to ensure the inspection meets BS 7671 standards.

By following this checklist, you can help prevent delays and ensure the inspection goes as smoothly as possible.

Common Electrical Issues to Address Before an EICR

Identifying and resolving common issues early can prevent inspection failures and costly follow-ups. These issues frequently arise during a landlord electrical safety check.

• Outdated Wiring

  • Homes built before the 1970s may have rubber or cloth-insulated wiring, which should be updated to modern PVC cable.

• Damaged Sockets and Switches

  • Use a socket tester to check for faults. Replace any that are cracked, loose, or warm.

• Check the RCDs

  • Residual Current Devices help prevent electric shock. Test them using the built-in button to confirm proper function.

• Verify Earthing and Bonding

  • Ask a qualified electrician to confirm that all earthing and bonding is secure and up to current standards.

Can I make electrical upgrades before an EICR?

Yes. Making upgrades in advance can improve safety, efficiency, and even help reduce minor faults noted in the inspection:

• Install surge protection devices (SPDs): These shield circuits and appliances from voltage spikes.

• Upgrade to metal-clad or tamper-resistant sockets: These enhance durability in high-traffic areas.

• Add smart RCBOs or circuit breakers: These provide better monitoring and fault detection.

• Install LED lighting with compliant fittings: This reduces energy use and supports higher safety ratings.

• Include smart smoke alarms and thermostats: These improve both energy control and overall home safety.

These additions will not guarantee a perfect report, but they can contribute positively to the overall condition of your electrical installation.

The Inspection Process: What to Expect on the Day

Understanding how the inspection works helps you prepare effectively and inform your tenants. An EICR for landlords typically follows a clear procedure:

• Inspection Duration

  • Most inspections last 2 to 4 hours, depending on the property’s size and layout.

• What Gets Checked

  • The electrician will assess the consumer unit, circuits, sockets, light fittings, bonding, earthing, and RCDs.

• How It’s Done

  • Visual checks and electrical tests are carried out, including insulation resistance, continuity, polarity, and RCD performance.

  • The report uses condition codes (C1, C2, C3, FI) to show what needs fixing, what is recommended, and what may need further investigation.

Being familiar with this process helps you stay ready and minimises disruption for your tenants.

After the Inspection: What Happens If Your Property Fails an EICR?

If your property does not pass, take prompt action to remain compliant and avoid penalties. A failed electrical condition report UK inspection can often be resolved without major delays:

• Understand the Codes

  • C1: Immediate danger. This must be fixed immediately.

  • C2: Potential danger. This requires urgent attention.

  • C3: Improvement suggested. This is not mandatory.

  • FI: More checks needed. Further investigation is required.

• Take Action

  • Address all C1 and C2 faults within 28 days.

  • Provide written confirmation to tenants and the council that the issues have been resolved.

• Arrange a Re-inspection

  • A follow-up visit may be needed to verify the work has been completed properly.

Quick and thorough responses to faults help you maintain safety and avoid enforcement action.

After the Inspection: What Happens If Your Property Fails an EICR?

If your property does not pass, take prompt action to remain compliant and avoid penalties. A failed electrical condition report UK inspection can often be resolved without major delays:

• Understand the Codes

  • C1: Immediate danger. This must be fixed immediately.

  • C2: Potential danger. This requires urgent attention.

  • C3: Improvement suggested. This is not mandatory.

  • FI: More checks needed. Further investigation is required.

• Take Action

  • Address all C1 and C2 faults within 28 days.

  • Provide written confirmation to tenants and the council that the issues have been resolved.

• Arrange a Re-inspection

  • A follow-up visit may be needed to verify the work has been completed properly.

Quick and thorough responses to faults help you maintain safety and avoid enforcement action.

Conclusion: Stay Compliant and Safe with a Thorough EICR Preparation Plan

Preparing for an EICR inspection is straightforward when you know what to expect. From legal responsibilities to electrical upgrades, taking the right steps early makes a big difference.

By staying organised and proactive, you protect your tenants, maintain compliance, and reduce the risk of costly delays. Use this guide to keep your property in excellent condition and inspection-ready at all times.

Note: This guide applies to rental properties in England. Regulations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland may differ. Check local laws or speak to a qualified electrician for region-specific advice.