EICR for landlords: the electrical safety rules
By the Dome team · Reviewed
Private landlords in England must have the electrical installation in their rental checked at least every five years. Here is what the rules require. This is a general guide, not legal advice.
The short answer
Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must have the fixed electrical installation inspected and tested by a qualified and competent person at least every five years. The result is an Electrical Installation Condition Report, known as an EICR.
What the inspection covers
- Wiring, sockets and light fittings.
- The consumer unit (fuse box).
- Permanently connected equipment such as electric showers and extractor fans.
Portable appliances like kettles or toasters are not part of the EICR, although testing any you supply is good practice.
Understanding the codes
| Code | Meaning | Action needed |
|---|---|---|
| C1 | Danger present | Urgent remedial work |
| C2 | Potentially dangerous | Remedial work required |
| FI | Further investigation required | Investigation required |
| C3 | Improvement recommended | Not required by law |
Any C1, C2 or FI code means the report is unsatisfactory.
Deadlines to remember
- Give a copy of the report to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection.
- Give new tenants a copy before they move in.
- Give your local council a copy within 7 days if they ask for one.
- Complete any required remedial work within 28 days, or sooner if the report says so.
- Send written confirmation of completed work to your tenant and the council within 28 days of finishing it.
- Keep a copy to give the next inspector.
Who can carry it out
A qualified and competent electrician. Many landlords use an electrician registered with a competent person scheme, which makes it easier to show they were qualified.
What happens if you don't
Councils can serve a remedial notice, arrange the work themselves and recover the cost, and impose financial penalties of up to £30,000.
The EICR sits alongside gas safety and other duties. See the gas safety guide and the full landlord compliance checklist.
Frequently asked questions
How often do landlords need an EICR?
At least every five years, or sooner if the previous report says so.
What do the EICR codes C1, C2 and FI mean?
C1 means danger present, C2 means potentially dangerous and FI means further investigation is needed. Any of these makes the report unsatisfactory and requires remedial work.
How long do I have to fix EICR issues?
Within 28 days, or sooner if the report specifies a shorter period, and you must send written confirmation of the work to your tenant and the council within 28 days of completion.
