Electrical Safety Certificate (EICR)
In England, private landlords must have the electrical installations in their rental properties inspected and tested by a qualified person. The result is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).
Amanda flags this topic for awareness. Amanda does not verify or manage individual landlord obligations.
Legislation
The requirement comes from the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020. It applies to all private rented properties in England.
- Effective 1 July 2020 for new tenancies
- Effective 1 April 2021 for existing tenancies
What is required
- An EICR must be obtained at least every 5 years (or more frequently if the report recommends it)
- The inspection must be carried out by a qualified and competent person (e.g. a registered electrician)
- A copy of the report must be provided to tenants within 28 days of the inspection
- A copy must be provided to prospective tenants within 28 days of their request
- A copy must be supplied to the local authority within 7 days of a request
Remedial work
If the EICR identifies any unsatisfactory conditions (codes C1 or C2), the landlord must:
- Complete further investigative or remedial work within 28 days (or the period specified in the report, if shorter)
- Obtain written confirmation from the electrician that the work has been completed
- Supply this confirmation to the tenant and local authority within 28 days of completion
Penalties
Local authorities can impose a financial penalty of up to £30,000 per breach. They may also arrange remedial work themselves and recover costs from the landlord.
What Amanda helps you understand
- That an EICR is required for private rented properties in England
- The inspection cycle and key timeframes
- Why this was flagged (you own and rent out property in England)
Amanda does not track EICR expiry dates or manage compliance deadlines. For specific requirements, consult your letting agent or a qualified electrician.
Official source
Electrical safety standards in the private rented sector — GOV.UK