What is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a formal inspection and test of the fixed wiring in a property: the consumer unit, circuits, sockets, switches, light fittings and earthing and bonding. It's carried out against BS 7671, the UK wiring regulations, and identifies anything that is damaged, deteriorating, dangerous or no longer meets current standards.
Who needs one?
| Property | Recommended frequency |
|---|---|
| Private rented homes (England) | At least every 5 years — a legal requirement under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 |
| Owner-occupied homes | Every 10 years is recommended, and when buying or selling a property |
| Businesses and commercial premises | Commonly every 5 years, or more often depending on the type of premises and use |
An inspector may recommend a shorter interval depending on the condition of the installation. Our guide how often should you have an EICR? explains more.
Understanding the codes on your report
- C1 – Danger present. Risk of injury; immediate action required.
- C2 – Potentially dangerous. Urgent remedial action required.
- C3 – Improvement recommended. Doesn't make the report unsatisfactory.
- FI – Further investigation required without delay.
Any C1, C2 or FI code means the report is unsatisfactory. We'll explain every observation in plain English and give you a clear quote for any remedial work. For landlords, remedial work must be completed within 28 days (or sooner if the report says so).
Other certificates we provide
- Electrical Installation Certificates (EIC) for new circuits and rewires
- Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificates for small additions and alterations
- Building Regulations compliance certificates for notifiable work
- Pre-installation inspection and testing on request
- PAT testing for portable appliances — see PAT testing
Frequently asked questions
How long does an EICR take?
A typical house takes a few hours. Larger properties and commercial premises take longer. Power will need to be switched off for parts of the inspection, and we'll let you know in advance.
Is an EICR a legal requirement for landlords?
Yes, in England. Private landlords must have the electrical installation inspected and tested at least every five years, give a copy of the report to tenants within 28 days, and provide it to the local authority within 7 days if asked.
What happens if my EICR is unsatisfactory?
We'll explain each issue and quote for the remedial work. Once the work is done, you'll receive written confirmation that the installation is now satisfactory.
Is an EICR the same as PAT testing?
No. An EICR covers the fixed wiring in the building. PAT testing covers portable appliances that plug in, such as kettles, kitchen appliances and computers.
Do I need an EICR when buying a house?
It isn't a legal requirement, but it's a sensible check — especially for older properties. It can reveal costly problems before you commit.