Who Can Carry Out an EICR?

Who can carry out an EICR in the UK and what makes someone qualified?

If you are a landlord or property manager, you need to know who is legally permitted to carry out an Electrical Installation Condition Report. An EICR must be completed by someone who is qualified and competent. This typically means an electrician who holds recognised inspection and testing qualifications, has practical experience, and is registered with a competent person scheme such as NICEIC or NAPIT. These professionals are required to understand current BS 7671 wiring regulations, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and how these apply in rented properties.

What is an EICR and why is it needed for rental properties?

An EICR is a detailed electrical safety report that evaluates the condition of fixed electrical systems within a building. This includes wiring, consumer units, sockets, lighting circuits and other fixed components. The report identifies any damage, defects or deterioration that could pose a risk to occupants. It also checks compliance with the latest British Standard for electrical installations.

For landlords in England, it is a legal obligation to arrange an EICR every five years or when a new tenant moves in. The regulations are part of the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020. Landlords can learn more about these rules and related responsibilities on our landlord compliance page.

What does “qualified and competent” mean for EICR inspections?

The regulatory meaning of competence

The UK government uses the term qualified and competent to describe the minimum requirement for anyone inspecting and testing fixed electrical installations. According to BS 7671 and the Health and Safety Executive, this means having appropriate qualifications, technical knowledge and practical experience. The person must also be capable of identifying and avoiding risks associated with electricity.

Recognised qualifications for EICR inspectors

Most electricians who carry out EICRs hold the City and Guilds 2391-52 qualification. This combines the theory and practical aspects of periodic inspection and initial verification. Other relevant certifications include the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Electrical Installation. These qualifications show that the individual understands how to assess electrical safety and complete an EICR to the correct standard.

If an electrician is unfamiliar with current wiring regulations or cannot explain how they classify observations using C1, C2, C3 or FI codes, they are unlikely to meet the competence requirement.

Why experience and ongoing training also matter

Formal qualifications provide a foundation, but experience ensures an electrician knows how to apply those skills in real-world situations. Registered electricians who carry out EICRs regularly are more likely to identify faults accurately and recommend appropriate action. They also understand the importance of keeping up with updates to BS 7671 and changes in legislation.

Qualified inspectors know how to complete reports in a clear and usable format. They describe what was tested, highlight observations and explain if the outcome is satisfactory or unsatisfactory. Their assessments are precise, not vague.

Which organisations register competent electricians?

Why it matters to use a registered contractor

Choosing an electrician who is part of a competent person scheme gives you more assurance. These schemes include regular assessments, ongoing training requirements and access to complaints resolution services.

Trusted registration bodies for EICR work

The main schemes include:

• NICEIC (National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting)

• NAPIT (National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers)

• ECA (Electrical Contractors Association)

Electricians registered with these bodies are listed on public directories like the Electrical Safety Register. This allows landlords and letting agents to confirm their status quickly.

What happens if you use someone who is not qualified or registered?

Legal and financial consequences for landlords

If you allow someone who lacks recognised qualifications and registration to complete an EICR, there is a real risk of being fined. Local authorities can issue civil penalties up to £30,000 for non-compliance with electrical safety rules in rented properties.

Insurance concerns and liability

Using an unqualified person may invalidate your landlord insurance policy. Insurers may refuse to pay out for claims related to fire or injury if the EICR is deemed unreliable or was not carried out by a competent inspector.

Missed hazards and reporting errors

Unregistered electricians are more likely to miss important defects. This could include lack of RCD protection, inadequate bonding, overloaded circuits or poor-quality wiring. A qualified inspector knows what to look for and how to report it clearly. The EICR should explain the severity of any issue and whether it needs urgent repair or further investigation.

What to look for when hiring someone to carry out an EICR

Check documentation and credentials

Ask to see certificates that prove qualifications in inspection and testing. Confirm registration with a competent person scheme by checking their listing on the organisation’s website.

Ask questions about experience

A good question to ask is how many EICRs they have completed in the last twelve months. Electricians who work regularly with landlords and letting agents are usually more familiar with the requirements of rental property inspections.

Verify insurance and professionalism

The electrician should have up-to-date public liability and professional indemnity insurance. This protects both parties if there is a dispute or if damage occurs during the inspection.

What questions should you ask before booking an EICR?

Here are some helpful things to ask:

• Are you registered with NICEIC, NAPIT or the ECA?

• Do you hold current inspection and testing qualifications such as City and Guilds 2391?

• How familiar are you with rental property safety regulations?

• Will your report explain each issue in plain English?

• Can you provide references or reviews from similar work?

Asking these questions helps to ensure you choose someone who meets both the legal and practical requirements.

Summary

EICRs need to be carried out by individuals who are both technically trained and practically experienced. The best way to ensure this is by choosing a registered electrician who holds qualifications in inspection and testing, understands current standards and regularly works with rental properties.

By choosing someone qualified and competent, you can be confident that your property is safe, your paperwork is in order and you are meeting your legal responsibilities as a landlord. Cutting corners by hiring someone without the right credentials can cost you far more in the long run.

You can learn more about the legal requirements by visiting our guide to landlord responsibilities.