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Common Questions EICR
1. What is an EICR?
An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is an official electrical safety inspection that assesses the condition of a property’s fixed wiring and electrical systems. It identifies whether the installation is safe, highlights defects, and confirms compliance with current UK electrical safety standards, helping to prevent electric shocks and fire risks.
2. What does an EICR check?
An EICR checks the fixed electrical installation, including the consumer unit (fuse board), wiring, sockets, switches, lighting circuits, earthing, and bonding. The inspection includes visual checks and electrical testing to detect faults, deterioration, overheating, and any safety hazards that could pose a risk to occupants.
3. How is an EICR different from other electrical reports?
An EICR assesses the condition of existing electrical installations, while an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) is issued for new installations or major electrical work. PAT testing only applies to portable appliances and does not assess fixed wiring, making it separate from an EICR.
4. Can I complete an EICR myself?
No, an EICR must be carried out by a qualified and competent electrician. The inspection requires specialist electrical testing equipment and professional knowledge, and reports completed by unqualified individuals are not legally valid or accepted by landlords, insurers, or local authorities.
5. Do I legally need an EICR?
Homeowners are not legally required to have an EICR, but landlords in England must obtain one for rental properties under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector Regulations. The report ensures electrical installations meet legal safety requirements and protect tenants.
6. How often do I need an EICR?
EICRs are recommended every 10 years for owner-occupied homes and every 5 years for rental properties. Commercial properties may require more frequent inspections depending on usage, risk levels, and insurance requirements.
7. Is an EICR required to sell a house?
An EICR is not legally required when selling a house, but many buyers and solicitors request one. Providing a recent EICR can speed up the sale process, highlight electrical safety, and reduce the risk of last-minute renegotiations.
8. Do tenants have the right to see the EICR?
Yes, tenants are legally entitled to receive a copy of the EICR. Landlords must provide it to new tenants before they move in and to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection, ensuring transparency and electrical safety compliance.
9. How much does an EICR cost?
The cost of an EICR in the UK typically ranges from £120 to £300, depending on property size, number of circuits, and location. Larger properties and older electrical systems may cost more due to increased testing time.
10. How long does an EICR take?
An EICR usually takes between 2 and 4 hours for an average residential property. Larger homes or properties with complex or outdated wiring may take longer due to additional testing and investigation.
11. How soon will I receive my EICR report?
Most electricians issue the EICR report on the same day or within a few days of the inspection. Many provide digital copies quickly, allowing landlords and homeowners to meet legal or transactional deadlines without delay.
12. What do the EICR codes mean (C1, C2, C3, FI)?
EICR codes indicate the severity of electrical issues: C1 means immediate danger, C2 indicates potentially dangerous faults, C3 recommends improvements, and FI means further investigation is required. C1 and C2 codes result in an unsatisfactory EICR.
13. What happens if my EICR fails?
If an EICR is unsatisfactory due to C1 or C2 faults, remedial electrical work must be completed to make the installation safe. Landlords must complete repairs within legal timeframes and obtain written confirmation of compliance.
14. Can I dispute an EICR report?
Yes, if you disagree with an EICR outcome, you can request clarification or seek a second opinion from another qualified electrician. Complaints can also be raised with the electrician’s registration body, such as NICEIC or NAPIT.
15. Do homeowners need an EICR?
Homeowners are not legally required to have an EICR, but regular electrical inspections are strongly recommended. An EICR helps identify hidden faults, reduce fire risk, and maintain electrical safety, especially in older properties.
16. Do landlords need an EICR for each tenant?
Landlords do not need a new EICR for every tenant change, provided the report is still valid within the 5-year period. However, each new tenant must be given a copy of the existing EICR before moving in.
17. Is an EICR different for rental properties?
The inspection process is the same for rental and owner-occupied properties, but rental properties have stricter legal requirements. Any safety-related issues must be fixed promptly, and documentation must be retained and shared with tenants and authorities.
18. Will an EICR show if my house needs rewiring?
An EICR does not automatically require rewiring, but it will identify unsafe or outdated wiring systems. If serious defects or deterioration are found, the report may recommend partial or full rewiring to meet safety standards.
19. How do I prepare for an EICR inspection?
To prepare for an EICR, ensure clear access to the consumer unit, sockets, switches, and electrical points. Occupants should be informed of temporary power interruptions, allowing the inspection to be completed efficiently.
20. Who can carry out an EICR?
An EICR must be completed by a competent electrician with the correct qualifications and experience. Electricians registered with recognised UK bodies such as NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA provide added assurance of compliance and professionalism.