Landlord guide · England
EICRs for landlords: electrical safety checks explained
Private landlords in England must have the electrical installation inspected and tested at least every five years by a qualified and competent person, usually producing an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). Anything it requires must be fixed within 28 days, or sooner if the report says so.
Checked against official guidance on . General information for England, not legal advice.
How often
At least every five years, or sooner if the report gives an earlier date for the next inspection.
Who gets a copy, and when
- Existing tenants: within 28 days of the inspection
- New tenants: before they move in
- Prospective tenants: within 28 days of asking
- The local council: within 7 days of asking
Remedial work
Any remedial work or further investigation the report requires must be done within 28 days, or within any shorter period the report sets.
Within 28 days of finishing that work, send the tenant and the council written confirmation from the electrician who did it — for example a satisfactory new report, an Electrical Installation Certificate or a Minor Works Certificate — together with the original report.
Penalties
Councils can impose a financial penalty of up to £40,000.
Sources
Rules differ in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. If you are not sure how they apply to your property, ask your council’s private housing team or a solicitor.
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