EICR at a Glance
What Does the Law Require?
The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 require all private landlords to have the electrical installations in their rental properties inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years.
The regulations apply to all new tenancies from 1 July 2020 and all existing tenancies from 1 April 2021. The landlord must provide a copy of the EICR to existing tenants within 28 days and to new tenants before they occupy the property.
If a local housing authority requests it, the landlord must supply a copy of the EICR within 7 days. Failure to comply with any part of these regulations can result in a financial penalty of up to £30,000.
Understanding EICR Classification Codes
The EICR uses standardised classification codes to describe any defects found. Understanding these codes is essential for knowing what action is required and how urgently.
C1 — Danger Present
Risk of injury exists. Immediate action required—the electrician may disconnect the affected circuit on the spot. The property fails the EICR.
C2 — Potentially Dangerous
A risk could arise under certain conditions. Urgent remedial action required within 28 days. The property fails the EICR.
C3 — Improvement Recommended
Not immediately dangerous but an improvement is recommended. The property still passes the EICR. No legal obligation to fix, but good practice to address.
FI — Further Investigation
Further investigation is required to determine the extent of a potential issue. The outcome depends on the follow-up investigation.
The EICR Process: Step by Step
Book the Inspection
Hire a qualified electrician registered with a competent person scheme (NICEIC, NAPIT, ELECSA, or similar). They must be qualified to at least City & Guilds 2391 or equivalent.
The Inspection Takes Place
The electrician inspects the consumer unit, wiring, sockets, light fittings, and all fixed electrical installations. A typical inspection takes 2–4 hours for a standard property.
Receive the Report
The electrician issues the EICR with a satisfactory or unsatisfactory result. Any observations are classified as C1, C2, C3, or FI.
Address Any Defects
C1 and C2 defects must be rectified within 28 days. The electrician must then confirm the work is complete in writing.
Provide to Tenants
Give a copy of the EICR to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection. For new tenants, provide it before they move in. Supply to local authority within 7 days if requested.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is an inspection of the fixed electrical wiring in a property. A qualified electrician checks the consumer unit, wiring, sockets, light fittings, and other fixed installations for safety.
Who needs an EICR?
Since 1 April 2021, all private rented properties in England must have a valid EICR. This applies to both new and existing tenancies. Scotland has had similar requirements since December 2015.
How often does an EICR need to be renewed?
An EICR is valid for 5 years, or less if the electrician recommends an earlier re-inspection. The report must be renewed before it expires for the property to remain legally compliant.
What are the EICR classification codes?
C1 means danger is present and immediate action is needed. C2 means potentially dangerous and urgent remedial action is required. C3 means improvement is recommended but not required. FI means further investigation is needed. A property must have no C1 or C2 codes to pass.
What happens if a property fails its EICR?
If any C1 or C2 defects are found, the landlord must arrange remedial work within 28 days (or sooner if urgent). Once repairs are done, the electrician must confirm the work in writing. The updated report must then be provided to the tenant and local authority within 28 days.
What are the penalties for not having an EICR?
Local authorities can impose financial penalties of up to £30,000 per breach. They can also apply to the First-tier Tribunal for a rent repayment order, meaning the landlord may have to repay up to 12 months of rent.
How to Track EICRs Across Your Portfolio
If you manage more than a handful of properties, tracking EICR expiry dates manually becomes a real risk. A single overlooked renewal can result in a £30,000 fine and significant reputational damage.
Property management software like AgentInABox tracks EICR expiry dates alongside gas safety certificates, EPCs, and smoke alarm checks. You get automatic reminders before certificates expire and a compliance dashboard showing the status of every property in your portfolio.
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