Quick answer: An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is the fixed-wiring inspection every privately rented home in England must have at least every 5 years, with a copy given to tenants within 28 days. The inspector tests the consumer unit, wiring, earthing, sockets and switches, and codes any defects: C1 (danger present — immediate action), C2 (potentially dangerous — remedial work within 28 days), C3 (improvement recommended — pass), FI (further investigation). C1 and C2 mean the report is unsatisfactory until fixed.
What the inspector checks
| Area | What's tested | Common failure |
|---|---|---|
| Consumer unit | RCD protection, condition, labelling | No RCD protection on socket circuits (usually C2) |
| Wiring | Insulation resistance, continuity, age/type | Degraded rubber/early PVC cabling |
| Earthing & bonding | Main earth, gas/water bonding | Missing bonding to incoming services (C2) |
| Accessories | Sockets, switches, fused spurs, light fittings | Cracked plates, scorched sockets, loose fittings |
| Bathrooms | Zone compliance, IP ratings, supplementary bonding | Wrong fittings in Zones 1–2 — see our bathroom zones guide |
Landlord pre-inspection checklist
- Replace any cracked or scorched sockets and switch plates — cheap fixes that avoid C2 codes
- Check every bathroom fitting is correctly IP-rated for its zone
- Make sure the consumer unit is labelled and accessible
- In HMOs, confirm emergency lighting and fire systems are also in test — see the HMO licensing checklist
- Have previous EICR and any electrical installation certificates ready for the inspector
Frequently asked questions
How often is an EICR required?
Every 5 years for private rentals in England (or sooner if the report specifies), at change of tenancy as best practice, and typically every 5 years for HMOs under licensing conditions.
What happens if I don't have one?
Local authorities can fine landlords up to £30,000 per breach of the Electrical Safety Standards Regulations 2020 and can arrange remedial work and recover costs.
Is a C3 code a fail?
No — C3 means improvement recommended. The report is still satisfactory. Only C1, C2 and FI make it unsatisfactory.
Who can carry out an EICR?
A qualified and competent person — in practice an electrician registered with a scheme such as NICEIC or NAPIT, working to BS 7671.
Fixing the common failures
- BG sockets & switches — like-for-like replacements for damaged accessories
- Fused connection units — for fixed appliances
- Emergency lighting — HMO common areas
Managing multiple properties? Open a trade account for trade pricing on remedial parts. This guide is general information, not a substitute for advice from a qualified electrician.