- Content updated on
- April 29, 2026
Landlords in England must have the electrical installations in their rental properties inspected and tested by a qualified and competent person at least every five years. They must provide a copy of the report to tenants, carry out any required remedial work, and supply the report to the local authority if requested.
What Is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report, or EICR, is a detailed inspection and test of a property’s fixed electrical installation. This includes wiring, sockets, consumer units, circuits, and earthing systems.
The purpose of an EICR is to assess whether the installation is safe for continued use. Electrical systems can deteriorate over time due to age, wear, and usage, which may lead to faults or safety risks.
The inspection identifies issues such as overloaded circuits, defective work, or inadequate earthing that could cause electric shock or fire. It also confirms whether the installation meets current safety standards set out in BS 7671 (UK wiring regulations).
Are EICRs a Legal Requirement for Landlords?
Yes, EICRs are a legal requirement for landlords in England.
Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must ensure that electrical safety standards are met throughout the tenancy.
To comply with this duty, landlords must have the electrical installation inspected and tested at regular intervals, which must not exceed five years.
Key EICR Regulations Landlords Must Follow
The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020
These regulations came into force in 2020 and apply to most private rented properties in England. They were introduced to improve tenant safety and reduce the risk of electrical fires and injuries.
They require landlords to ensure that electrical installations are inspected, tested, and maintained in line with current safety standards.
Who the Regulations Apply To
The regulations apply to most private rented properties where tenants live as their main residence and pay rent.
This includes assured shorthold tenancies and Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). Some limited exemptions apply, such as lodger arrangements or certain long leases
What Landlords Are Legally Required to Do
Landlords must ensure electrical installations are safe at all times, not just at the point of inspection.
They are legally required to:
- Arrange inspection and testing at least every five years
- Obtain an EICR from a qualified and competent person
- Provide the report to existing tenants within 28 days
- Provide the report to new tenants before they move in
- Supply the report to the local authority within 7 days if requested
- Complete remedial or investigative work within 28 days or sooner if specified
- Keep records until the next inspection
How Often Is an EICR Required for Rental Properties?
An EICR must be carried out at intervals of no more than five years.
However, the electrician may recommend a shorter interval depending on the condition of the installation. Landlords must follow the date stated in the report to remain compliant.
What Happens During an EICR Inspection?
During an EICR, a qualified electrician carries out both a visual inspection and detailed testing of the electrical system.
The inspection checks for:
- Overloaded circuits
- Electric shock risks
- Fire hazards
- Defective electrical work
- Earthing and bonding issues
The goal is to confirm the installation is safe for continued use and meets current regulations.
What Happens If Your Property Fails an EICR?
If your property receives an unsatisfactory report, you must carry out remedial or investigative work within 28 days, or sooner if specified.
Once completed, you must obtain written confirmation and provide it to tenants and, if requested, the local authority.
Landlord Responsibilities After the EICR
After receiving an EICR, landlords must keep records and ensure ongoing compliance.
This includes retaining the report, providing it to tenants, and ensuring any required work is completed. Proper documentation is essential to demonstrate compliance with legal dutie
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with EICR regulations can result in enforcement action by local authorities.
Landlords may face financial penalties of up to £30,000 per breach.
EICR Requirements for HMOs
Houses in Multiple Occupation are subject to the same EICR regulations as other rental properties.
However, additional licensing requirements may apply depending on the local authority, which can include stricter safety standards or inspection requirements.
How to Stay Compliant & Avoid Fines
Failing to comply with EICR regulations can result in fines of up to £30,000 per breach. To avoid penalties and ensure tenant safety, landlords should stay proactive about electrical safety requirements.
Key Compliance Steps
- Get an EICR every five years – This is a legal requirement for all rental properties. If your last report is close to expiry, book a new inspection early.
- Provide a copy to tenants – A valid EICR must be supplied to new tenants within 28 days of the inspection.
- Submit reports to local authorities if requested – Councils can request an EICR at any time, and landlords must provide it within seven days.
- Act on unsatisfactory reports quickly – If an EICR flags issues, landlords have 28 days to carry out remedial work.
- Hire a qualified electrician – Only certified professionals can issue a compliant EICR. Using an unqualified contractor may result in an invalid report.
How Often Should a Landlord Get an EICR? (Tip to Avoid Fines!)
- Every five years – This applies to all rental properties, regardless of tenancy changes.
- At the start of a new tenancy – If an EICR is close to expiry or if significant electrical work has been done.
- For HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) – Some councils may require more frequent checks, so always confirm with local regulations.
By following these steps, landlords can avoid penalties, maintain tenant safety, and ensure long-term compliance.
Stay Compliant with EICR Regulations
Staying compliant with EICR regulations is essential for protecting your tenants and avoiding costly penalties.
At KG Electrical Contractors, we carry out professional EICR inspections for landlords in line with current UK regulations. Our qualified electricians provide clear reports and practical guidance on any remedial work required.
Book your landlord EICR today and ensure your property remains safe and compliant.
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