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Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) cause more confusion than they should. You’re not alone if you’re scratching your head about requirements, costs, and what happens next.
Here are the answers to the questions we get asked most often.
What’s the difference between an EICR and a Periodic Inspection Report?
They’re the same thing. The industry just updated the terminology to make it clearer. If someone mentions a Periodic Inspection Report, they mean an EICR.
Is an EICR required in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland?
It varies by country:
- Scotland: Required for all rental properties
- Wales: Recommended but not legally required (yet)
- Northern Ireland: Recommended but not legally required
Do I have to leave my home during the inspection?
No, you can stay. However, the electrician will need to turn off your power supply temporarily during testing. This usually happens in short bursts rather than for hours on end.
Plan for no electricity for brief periods. Your fridge won’t defrost, but you might want to charge your devices beforehand.
Is it a legal requirement for landlords?
Yes, in England it’s mandatory. You must have a valid EICR before letting your property and renew it every 5 years maximum.
Can I be fined for not having one?
Absolutely. Local councils can issue fines up to £30,000 for non-compliance. They don’t mess about with electrical safety.
The fine isn’t just for missing EICRs either. Failing to complete remedial work within 28 days also triggers penalties.
Can I rent a property with an unsatisfactory EICR?
No, not legally. If your EICR shows unsatisfactory results, you must complete all recommended remedial work before letting the property.
An unsatisfactory rating means there are safety issues that could harm your tenants. Fix them first, ask questions later.
What if my report is unsatisfactory?
You’ve got work to do. All recommended remedial work must be completed, and landlords have just 28 days from the inspection date to finish it.
The electrician will provide a list of required work. Some items might be urgent safety concerns, others might be improvements to bring wiring up to current standards.
Can I dispute a report?
Yes, you can get a second opinion from another qualified electrician. However, both electricians must be registered with a competent person scheme.
If the second opinion differs significantly, you might need to bring in a third expert to settle the matter.
Do I need another EICR after remedial work?
Not necessarily. For minor work, a Minor Works Certificate or written confirmation from the electrician is usually sufficient.
For major work, a new EICR might be required. Your electrician will advise what’s needed based on the scope of work completed.
How much does an EICR cost?
Typically £150–£300, depending on your property size and location. London prices sit at the higher end, while smaller properties in other areas cost less.
Factors affecting cost include:
- Number of circuits
- Property size
- Accessibility of wiring
- Location and local rates
How long does an EICR take?
Anywhere from 1 to 4+ hours, depending on your property’s size and complexity. A small flat might take an hour, while a large house with multiple consumer units could take most of a day.
The electrician needs to test every circuit, so don’t expect a quick once-over.
Can I get an EICR during a tenancy?
Yes, it’s standard practice. You’ll need to arrange access with your tenants, giving at least 24 hours’ notice.
Most tenants understand it’s a legal requirement and are happy to accommodate the inspection.
Does it cover appliances?
No, EICRs only cover fixed wiring – the cables, sockets, switches, and consumer unit built into your property.
For portable appliances like kettles, TVs, and washing machines, you need PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) instead.
What’s the difference between an EICR and a Consumer Unit upgrade?
An EICR checks the condition of your existing electrical installation. A consumer unit upgrade is actual work that might be recommended based on the EICR findings.
Think of the EICR as a health check, and the upgrade as the treatment if problems are found.
Do new builds need an EICR?
No, new builds receive an Electrical Installation Certificate when the work is completed. This confirms the installation meets current standards.
However, you should get your first EICR within 5 years of completion to maintain compliance.
Electrical safety isn’t something to guess about. If you’re unsure about any aspect of EICR requirements or need to book an inspection, the Qeeper team is here to help.
Our qualified electricians handle EICRs across London. We’ll arrange everything, carry out the inspection professionally, and guide you through any remedial work if needed.
Remember, the cost of an EICR is tiny compared to potential fines, insurance claims, or worse – the cost of an electrical accident.
Ready to book your EICR? Contact us today. We’ll handle the paperwork, schedule at your convenience, and keep you compliant with all legal requirements.
When did you last check your property’s electrical installation? If it’s been more than 5 years (or you can’t remember), it’s time to get in touch.