Is an EICR a legal requirement for landlords?
Yes. Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, private landlords must have the electrical installation in their rental property inspected and tested by a qualified and competent person at least every five years, or sooner if the previous report says so.
The rules have applied to new tenancies since 1 July 2020 and to all existing tenancies since 1 April 2021. They cover most assured shorthold tenancies, licences to occupy and HMOs. Electrical safety requirements are also being phased in for the social rented sector; housing providers should check the current government guidance for the dates that apply.
Landlord duties and deadlines
| Duty | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Inspect and test the installation | At least every 5 years |
| Give a copy of the report to existing tenants | Within 28 days of the inspection |
| Give a copy to a new tenant | Before they move in |
| Give a copy to a prospective tenant who asks | Within 28 days of the request |
| Give a copy to the local housing authority if asked | Within 7 days of the request |
| Keep a copy for the next inspector | Until the next inspection |
What if the EICR is unsatisfactory?
If the report records any C1, C2 or FI observation, the landlord must make sure a qualified person carries out the remedial work or further investigation within 28 days, or within any shorter period stated on the report. The landlord must then get written confirmation that the work is done and the installation meets the safety standard, and give it to the tenant and the local authority within 28 days of the work being completed.
HMOs and licensing
HMOs are covered by the same five-year rule. Licensing conditions set by councils often ask for a current satisfactory EICR with the licence application or renewal, and some London boroughs run additional or selective licensing schemes with their own paperwork. HMOs usually have more circuits, fire alarm systems and emergency lighting, so plan a longer visit. See landlord electrical testing and smoke and CO alarm compliance.
Penalties for non-compliance
A local housing authority that believes a landlord is in breach can serve a remedial notice and can arrange the work itself and recover the cost. It can also impose a financial penalty of up to £30,000 for each breach. Letting agents acting for a landlord are also expected to make sure the duties are met.
Landlord EICR checklist
- Book the EICR before the five-year date, or sooner if the last report says so
- Send a copy to every tenant within 28 days
- Fix C1, C2 and FI items within 28 days and keep the completion paperwork
- Send written confirmation of the remedial work to tenants and the council
- Store the report and certificates together for the next inspector and any licence renewal
Polarity manages landlord EICRs across London, Essex, Kent and Surrey, with 24-hour digital reports, fixed remedial prices and portfolio reminders. Prices start from £180 — see the EICR cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do landlords need an EICR every 5 years?
Yes, in England the installation must be inspected and tested at least every five years, or more often if the previous report recommends a shorter interval.
Is an EICR needed for every new tenancy?
No. A valid EICR can cover several tenancies within the five-year period, but each new tenant must get a copy before they move in.
What is the fine for not having an EICR?
Local authorities can impose a financial penalty of up to £30,000 per breach of the regulations.
Do C3 codes have to be fixed?
No. Only C1, C2 and FI observations require remedial work or further investigation under the regulations.
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Book or request a quoteMore EICR guides
EICR codes explained: C1, C2, C3 and FI
What C1, C2, C3 and FI mean on an EICR, which codes make a report unsatisfactory, what landlords must fix within 28 days and real examples of each code.
How long does an EICR take?
Typical EICR times for flats, houses, HMOs and commercial premises in London, what slows an inspection down, how to prepare and when you get the report.
EICR, EIC or electrical safety certificate: which do you need?
The difference between an EICR, an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC), a Minor Works Certificate and an 'electrical safety certificate', and which one landlords, buyers and businesses need.