How often do you need an EICR? A guide for homeowners and landlords

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a bit like an MOT for your home’s wiring. A qualified electrician inspects and tests the fixed electrical installation (consumer unit, circuits, sockets, switches and lights) and records anything that’s unsafe or doesn’t meet current standards.

How often should you get one?

• Owner-occupied homes: at least every 10 years, and whenever you buy or sell a property
• Rented homes (England): at least every 5 years, by law since 2020
• Commercial premises: typically every 5 years, depending on use
• After major events: a flood, fire, or if a property has stood empty for a long time

If the last report recommended a shorter interval, follow that instead.

What do the codes mean?

• C1 – Danger present. Risk of injury. Needs fixing immediately.
• C2 – Potentially dangerous. Needs fixing urgently.
• C3 – Improvement recommended. Not unsafe, but would bring the installation closer to current standards.
• FI – Further investigation. Something needs looking at more closely.

Any C1, C2 or FI means the report is “unsatisfactory”. C3s on their own do not fail an inspection.

Landlords: what the law requires

Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must have the installation inspected at least every five years, give tenants a copy of the report, and complete any required remedial work within 28 days (or sooner if the report says so).

Booking an EICR in Bexhill and Hastings

I carry out EICRs for homeowners, buyers and landlords across Bexhill-on-Sea, St Leonards, Hastings and the surrounding area. You’ll get a clear report, an honest explanation of anything I find, and a fair quote for any work needed, with no scare tactics.