EICR Guide for Landlords: Everything You Need to Know in 2026

By Tim · Published 2026-02-15 · 8 min read

What is an EICR?

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a formal document produced after a thorough assessment of the electrical installation in a property. Previously known as a periodic inspection report, an EICR checks the condition of wiring, circuits, earthing, bonding, and the consumer unit (fuse box) to identify any defects, damage, or wear that could present a safety risk.

The inspection is carried out by a qualified and registered electrician — such as an NICEIC registered contractor — who will test every circuit, visually inspect accessible parts of the installation, and produce a detailed report with coded observations.

Legal Requirements for Landlords

The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 made EICRs a legal requirement for all rental properties in England. The key requirements are:

• An EICR must be carried out before a new tenancy begins
• The report must be renewed at least every 5 years
• A copy must be provided to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection
• A copy must be provided to new tenants before they occupy the property
• A copy must be given to the local authority within 7 days if requested
• Any remedial work identified must be completed within 28 days (or sooner for urgent issues)

The penalty for non-compliance is up to £30,000 per breach. Local authorities have the power to arrange remedial work themselves and bill the landlord if necessary.

What Does an EICR Involve?

An EICR is more than just a quick visual check. The inspection includes:

• Visual inspection of all accessible parts of the wiring, sockets, switches, and fittings
• Testing every circuit — checking insulation resistance, earth fault loop impedance, and polarity
• Checking earthing and bonding — ensuring the property is properly earthed for safety
• Consumer unit inspection — checking the condition, labelling, and suitability
• RCD testing — verifying that residual current devices operate within the required time
• Full written report with coded observations

Observations are classified using standard codes:

• C1 — Danger present: Risk of injury. Immediate remedial action required.
• C2 — Potentially dangerous: Remedial action required urgently.
• C3 — Improvement recommended: Not dangerous but could be improved.
• FI — Further investigation: Could not fully inspect; further investigation needed.

How Much Does an EICR Cost?

EICR pricing is based on the size of the property and the number of circuits:

• 1-bed flat: From £120
• 3-bed house: From £150
• 4–5 bed house: From £180
• Commercial premises: From £250

Factors that can affect the price include the age of the property, the number of additions or alterations, and whether the consumer unit is easily accessible. We always provide a fixed quote before the inspection.

What Happens if My Property Fails?

If C1 or C2 codes are found, the report will classify the installation as “unsatisfactory” and remedial work is required. For landlords:

• Remedial work must be completed within 28 days of the report
• C1 codes (danger present) should be addressed immediately — a responsible electrician will make the situation safe during the inspection
• Once remedial work is completed, the electrician will re-inspect and issue a satisfactory report
• The satisfactory report must be provided to tenants within 28 days

At Lilliput Electrical, we can often carry out minor remedial work during the same visit, saving you time and a second callout. For larger items, we’ll provide a clear quote before proceeding.

How to Book Your EICR

If you’re a landlord in Poole, Bournemouth, or East Dorset and need an EICR, we’re here to help. We offer competitive fixed pricing, fast turnaround, and can handle remedial work if needed.

Call 07809 680068 or message us on WhatsApp to book your inspection. We’ll aim to get you booked in within a week.