How to Get an EICR Certificate: A Landlord’s Step-by-Step Guide
How to Get an EICR Certificate: A Landlord’s Step-by-Step Guide
As a landlord in the UK, ensuring the safety of your rental property is a top priority. One of the most important steps in achieving this is obtaining an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). This document confirms that the electrical installations in your property are safe and compliant with UK regulations.
But how do you get an EICR certificate? This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process, from finding a qualified electrician to understanding the report and ensuring compliance.
What Is an EICR Certificate?
An EICR is a detailed inspection of the fixed electrical systems in a property, including wiring, sockets, fuse boxes, and light fittings. The report identifies any potential hazards, such as faulty wiring or overloaded circuits, and provides recommendations for repairs.
Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords are legally required to:
Have their properties inspected by a qualified electrician at least every 5 years.
Obtain an EICR certificate.
Provide a copy of the EICR to tenants before they move in and to local authorities if requested.
For more details, visit the official UK government guide:
Electrical Safety Standards for Landlords – GOV.UK
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an EICR Certificate
Step 1: Understand Your Legal Obligations
Before arranging an EICR inspection, it’s important to understand your legal responsibilities as a landlord. These include:
Ensuring the electrical installations in your property are safe.
Having an EICR carried out by a qualified electrician.
Providing tenants with a copy of the EICR.
Completing any necessary repairs within 28 days of the inspection.
For more information, visit:
Landlord Responsibilities for Electrical Safety – GOV.UK
Step 2: Find a Qualified Electrician
Only a qualified and competent electrician can carry out an EICR inspection. Look for an electrician registered with a government-approved scheme, such as:
NICEIC
ELECSA
You can find a registered electrician near you using the official register:
Find a Registered Electrician – GOV.UK
Step 3: Schedule the Inspection
Once you’ve found a qualified electrician, contact them to schedule the inspection. Be prepared to provide details about your property, such as its size and the number of electrical circuits.
How long does the inspection take?
For a standard 2-bedroom property, the inspection typically takes 2-4 hours. Larger properties may take longer.
What happens during the inspection?
The electrician will check the condition of the electrical installations, including wiring, sockets, switches, and fuse boxes. They will also test the circuits to ensure they are safe and compliant.
Step 4: Review the EICR Report
After the inspection, the electrician will provide an EICR report. This report will include:
A summary of the inspection findings.
A classification code for any issues identified:
C1: Danger present – immediate action required.
C2: Potentially dangerous – urgent action required.
C3: Improvement recommended but not urgent.
FI: Further investigation required.
What if the property fails the EICR?
If the report identifies any C1 or C2 issues, you must complete the necessary repairs within 28 days and provide written confirmation to tenants and the local authority.
For more guidance, visit:
Understanding Your EICR Report – GOV.UK
Step 5: Provide the EICR to Tenants
Once you have the EICR certificate, you must provide a copy to:
New tenants before they move in.
Existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection.
Local authorities if requested.
Failure to provide the EICR can result in fines of up to £30,000.
Step 6: Keep Records and Schedule the Next Inspection
Keep a copy of the EICR certificate for your records. You must also schedule the next inspection before the certificate expires (typically after 5 years).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much does an EICR cost?
The cost of an EICR depends on the size of the property and the number of circuits. On average:
1-bedroom property: £100-£150
2-bedroom property: £150-£200
3-bedroom property: £200-£300
2. What happens if I don’t get an EICR?
Failing to obtain an EICR can result in fines of up to £30,000 and may prevent you from evicting tenants under Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988.
3. Can I do the EICR myself?
No, only a qualified electrician can carry out an EICR inspection.
4. How often do I need an EICR?
An EICR is required at least every 5 years or at the start of a new tenancy.
Conclusion
Getting an EICR certificate is a straightforward process that ensures the safety of your rental property and keeps you compliant with UK regulations. By following this step-by-step guide, you can protect your tenants, avoid hefty fines, and maintain a safe living environment.
For further reading, visit the official government resources:
Stay informed, stay compliant, and prioritize safety in your rental properties.
