Landlord safety and legal compliance
For rented homes in England, the fixed electrical installation must be inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years, or sooner if the previous report sets a shorter interval. The electrical safety standards are based on the current edition of BS 7671.
The purpose is to protect the people living in the property. An Electrical Installation Condition Report checks the safety of fixed wiring, sockets, light fittings, the consumer unit, earthing and protective devices. It records the condition at the time of inspection and explains any action required.
Want the technical detail? Read our comprehensive EICR Guide 2026 covering inspection intervals, C1/C2/C3/FI, ring final testing, insulation resistance, Ze, Zs, RCD testing and inspector competence.
What happens during the inspection
We discuss the property and the reason for the inspection, agree the extent and any limitations, then carry out visual checks and electrical testing. Some circuits may need to be switched off temporarily. Accessible accessories may be opened where required for inspection.
After testing, you receive the report and a clear explanation of the observations. For landlords, the report must be supplied to an existing tenant within 28 days, to a new tenant before occupation, and to the local authority within seven days if requested.
Understanding the result
- C1 — Danger present: immediate action is required.
- C2 — Potentially dangerous: urgent remedial action is required.
- FI — Further investigation: more investigation is required without delay.
- C3 — Improvement recommended: an improvement is advised, but C3 alone does not make the report unsatisfactory.
Where a rented property report identifies C1, C2 or FI, the landlord rules normally require the necessary work or investigation within 28 days, or within a shorter period stated in the report. Any remedial work is explained and can be quoted separately.
Read the official GOV.UK landlord electrical safety guidance →
How often does a landlord need an EICR?+
At least every five years in England, unless the previous report specifies a shorter interval.
Will the power be turned off?+
Some interruption is normally required to test safely. We discuss sensitive equipment and access before starting.
Do you complete remedial work?+
Yes. Findings are explained first and any remedial work can be quoted separately.