Many landlords arranged their first Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) when the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations came into force in 2020. If you’re one of them there’s a good chance your certificate is now due for renewal.
An EICR is valid for up to five years (or less if recommended by the inspecting electrician) so it’s important not to let it expire. Booking your inspection early can help you avoid delays particularly during busy periods when demand for qualified electricians increases.
What are your legal responsibilities?
To remain compliant landlords in England must:
- Ensure the property’s fixed electrical installations are inspected and tested by a qualified and competent person at least every five years or sooner if your existing report specifies.
- Obtain an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).
- Provide a copy of the report to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection.
- Give a copy of the current EICR to any new tenant before they move into the property.
- Supply a copy to the local authority within seven days if requested.
- Complete any remedial work or further investigations identified in the report within 28 days or sooner if the report specifies a shorter timescale.
- Keep copies of the report until the next inspection is due.
Why renewing on time matters
Failing to comply with the regulations can have serious consequences. Local authorities can issue financial penalties of up to £30,000 for breaches of the regulations and failing to maintain valid electrical safety certification may also affect your landlord insurance policy.
Leaving your renewal until the last minute can also make it more difficult to secure an appointment with a qualified electrician particularly if large numbers of landlords are renewing their certificates at the same time.
What about Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland?
Electrical safety requirements apply across the UK although the legislation differs slightly between each nation.
- Scotland requires landlords to have electrical installations inspected at least every five years.
- Wales has equivalent five year electrical safety requirements for rented properties.
- Northern Ireland introduced mandatory electrical safety inspections for new private tenancies from 1 April 2025 with the regulations now applying to all private tenancies. Landlords must obtain an EICR at least every five years and comply with the same reporting and remedial timescales.
Need to renew your EICR?
Keeping on top of compliance protects your tenants, your property and your investment.
If your current EICR is approaching its expiry date now is the ideal time to arrange your next inspection. Planning ahead helps avoid unnecessary delays and ensures your property continues to meet the required legal standards.
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