If you own a rental property in London, keeping on top of your electrical compliance obligations is not optional, it is a legal requirement. One of the most common questions we hear from landlords is: how often do I actually need an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)?
This guide covers the current requirements under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, what applies to different types of property, and what happens if you miss the deadline
What is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report, commonly referred to as an EICR, is a formal assessment of the electrical installation within a property. It is carried out by a qualified electrician and evaluates the condition of the fixed wiring, consumer unit, earthing, bonding, and all associated electrical infrastructure against the requirements of BS 7671:2018+A2:2024 (the IET Wiring Regulations).
The report identifies any deficiencies, assigns them a code based on severity, and provides an overall pass or fail outcome. A satisfactory EICR means the installation is safe for continued use. An unsatisfactory result means remedial works are required before the certificate is reissued. You can book an EICR with us here.
How Often Is an EICR Required for Rental Properties
Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords renting residential properties in England are legally required to:
- Have the electrical installation inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years
- Obtain a written report (the EICR) from the inspector
- Supply a copy of the EICR to existing tenants within 28 days of inspection
- Supply a copy to any new tenant before they occupy the property
- Supply a copy to a prospective tenant within 28 days of receiving a written request
- Retain a copy and supply it to the local housing authority if requested
What About HMOs?
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) have historically been subject to stricter standards, and in many London boroughs they remain so. Mandatory licensed HMOs are required to have a valid EICR as a condition of their licence more detail is available in the GOV.UK guidance on HMO licensing.
If you are a landlord operating an HMO in Brent, Harrow, or elsewhere in North West London, we strongly recommend checking your licence conditions and not simply relying on the five-year rule. Contact us to discuss your specific property.
What About Owner-Occupied Properties?
There is no legal requirement for owner-occupiers to obtain an EICR on a fixed cycle. However we recommend that homeowners have their installation inspected:
- Every five years as a general guideline
- When purchasing a property where the age or condition of the wiring is unknown
- Before and after any major extension, renovation, or significant electrical work
- Before buying or selling, where a buyer’s solicitor or mortgage lender requests one
An EICR also provides peace of mind and may be required by your buildings insurer, particularly in older properties.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
Local housing authorities have significant enforcement powers under the 2020 Regulations. If a landlord fails to comply, the authority can:
- Serve a remedial notice requiring the landlord to carry out works
- Carry out the works themselves and recover the costs from the landlord
- Issue a financial penalty of up to £30,000
London councils have been increasingly active in enforcement since 2021. Brent, Camden, and Hackney have all issued penalties to landlords who failed to supply valid EICRs.
How to Book an EICR?
FindElectrician.co.uk Ltd is a NAPIT-accredited electrical contractor operating across London, including Willesden, Kensal Rise, and the surrounding areas of North West London. We carry out residential and commercial EICRs to the requirements of BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 and issue fully compliant certificates on the day of inspection.
If you are a landlord with a portfolio of properties, we offer block-booking arrangements and priority scheduling. Contact us on 07447 569653 or at contact@findelectrician.co.uk to arrange your inspection
or drop your contact details with brief description below and we will contact you within 12 hours.
