EICR Certificates for Landlords: Costs, Validity, and Legal Requirements
EICR Certificates for Landlords: Costs, Validity, and Legal Requirements
As a landlord, ensuring the safety of your tenants is not just a moral obligation but also a legal requirement. One of the key aspects of maintaining a safe rental property is ensuring the electrical installations are in good condition. This is where an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) comes into play. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything landlords need to know about EICR certificates, including costs, validity, legal requirements, and how to stay compliant.
What is an EICR Certificate?
An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is an official document issued by a qualified electrician after inspecting and testing the electrical installations in a property. The report assesses the safety and condition of the electrical systems, including wiring, sockets, light fittings, and consumer units (fuse boxes).
The purpose of an EICR is to:
Identify any potential hazards or defects in the electrical system.
Ensure the property meets the current electrical safety standards.
Provide landlords with evidence of compliance with legal requirements.
Legal Requirements for Landlords
Since 1 June 2020, it has been a legal requirement for landlords in England to ensure that the electrical installations in their rental properties are inspected and tested by a qualified electrician at least every 5 years. This requirement applies to all tenancies, including:
Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs)
Licenses to occupy
Social housing
Student accommodations
Key Legal Obligations:
Arrange an EICR Inspection: Landlords must have the electrical installations inspected and tested by a qualified electrician.
Obtain an EICR Certificate: After the inspection, the electrician will issue an EICR certificate. If the property passes the inspection, the certificate will confirm compliance. If it fails, the landlord must address any issues identified.
Provide the EICR to Tenants: Landlords must provide a copy of the EICR certificate to their tenants within 28 days of the inspection.
Supply the EICR to Local Authorities: If requested, landlords must provide a copy of the EICR to their local authority within 7 days.
Keep Records: Landlords must retain a copy of the EICR certificate and provide it to the next electrician who conducts an inspection.
Failure to comply with these requirements can result in fines of up to £30,000.
For more information, visit the official UK government guidance:
Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector
How Much Does an EICR Certificate Cost?
The cost of an EICR certificate can vary depending on several factors, including:
The size of the property
The number of electrical circuits
The location of the property
The electrician’s qualifications and experience
On average, landlords can expect to pay:
£120 to £200 for a one-bedroom flat
£150 to £250 for a two- or three-bedroom house
£200 to £300 for larger properties with multiple circuits
It’s important to note that if the inspection identifies any issues, the cost of repairs or remedial work will be additional.
How Long is an EICR Certificate Valid?
An EICR certificate is valid for 5 years from the date of issue. However, there are exceptions:
If the electrician identifies any issues during the inspection, they may recommend a follow-up inspection sooner than 5 years.
If the property undergoes significant electrical work, a new EICR may be required.
Landlords should keep track of the expiration date and arrange for a new inspection before the current certificate expires.
What Happens During an EICR Inspection?
During an EICR inspection, a qualified electrician will:
Visually Inspect the electrical installations to identify any obvious signs of damage or wear.
Test the Electrical Circuits to ensure they are functioning correctly and safely.
Check the Consumer Unit (fuse box) to ensure it meets current standards.
Identify Any Hazards, such as overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, or lack of earthing.
The electrician will then issue an EICR certificate with one of the following classifications:
Satisfactory: The electrical installations are safe and meet the required standards.
Unsatisfactory: Issues were identified, and remedial work is required.
What if the EICR Fails?
If the EICR inspection identifies any issues, the electrician will classify them using the following codes:
C1: Danger present – immediate action required.
C2: Potentially dangerous – urgent action required.
C3: Improvement recommended but not urgent.
Landlords must address any C1 or C2 issues within 28 days or sooner if specified by the electrician. Once the repairs are completed, the electrician will issue a Landlord’s Electrical Safety Certificate to confirm compliance.
How to Choose a Qualified Electrician
To ensure the EICR inspection is conducted correctly, landlords must hire a qualified and competent electrician. Look for electricians who are:
Registered with a government-approved scheme, such as:
Experienced in conducting EICR inspections for rental properties.
You can verify an electrician’s credentials on the official UK government website:
Find a Registered Electrician
Benefits of an EICR Certificate for Landlords
Legal Compliance: Avoid fines and penalties by meeting your legal obligations.
Tenant Safety: Reduce the risk of electrical fires, shocks, and other hazards.
Property Protection: Identify and address electrical issues before they cause significant damage.
Peace of Mind: Ensure your property is safe and meets current standards.
Improved Reputation: Demonstrate your commitment to tenant safety, which can help attract and retain tenants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need an EICR for a new build property?
Yes, even new build properties require an EICR. However, if the property has a valid Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) issued within the last 5 years, an EICR may not be necessary.
2. Can I conduct the EICR inspection myself?
No, EICR inspections must be carried out by a qualified and competent electrician.
3. What happens if I don’t get an EICR?
Failure to obtain an EICR can result in fines of up to £30,000 and invalidate your landlord insurance.
4. Do I need an EICR for appliances?
No, an EICR only covers fixed electrical installations. However, landlords are also required to ensure any provided appliances are safe (e.g., PAT testing).
5. Can I rent out a property without an EICR?
No, it is illegal to rent out a property without a valid EICR certificate.
Helpful Resources
For more information, visit the following official resources:
Conclusion
An EICR certificate is a crucial document for landlords, ensuring the safety of tenants and compliance with legal requirements. By understanding the costs, validity, and legal obligations associated with EICR certificates, landlords can protect their properties, avoid penalties, and provide a safe living environment for their tenants.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – schedule your EICR inspection today and stay on the right side of the law!
