EICR Certificate Cost UK 2025 — What to Expect
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a legal requirement for all private rental properties in England. For homeowners, it is the definitive check on whether your electrics are safe. This guide covers what an EICR costs, what it covers, what the codes mean, and how to get one booked quickly.
What is an EICR?
An EICR is a formal inspection of a property's fixed electrical installation — the wiring, sockets, switches, consumer unit, earthing, and bonding. A registered electrician carries out the inspection and issues a written report grading any faults found. The report concludes with an overall result of Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory.
An EICR does not cover portable appliances (PAT testing) or solar panels — only the fixed installation.
EICR cost by property size
EICR prices in the UK vary by property size, number of circuits, and region:
- 1-bed flat: £150–£200
- 2-bed house: £175–£250
- 3-bed house: £200–£300
- 4-bed house: £250–£400
- HMO (Houses in Multiple Occupation): add £20–£40 per room
London and South East prices are typically 20–30% above these ranges. Older properties with complex wiring or many circuits cost more.
Is an EICR a legal requirement?
For landlords in England: Yes. Since 1 April 2021, all private landlords must hold a valid EICR for every rented property. Key requirements:
- EICR must be obtained before a new tenancy starts and renewed every 5 years (or sooner if the report specifies).
- A copy must be given to each tenant before they occupy the property.
- Remedial work identified in the report must be completed within 28 days.
- Local authorities can impose fines of up to £30,000 for non-compliance.
For owner-occupiers: An EICR is not legally required, but strongly recommended — particularly before buying a property, undertaking a major renovation, or remortgaging.
What do EICR codes mean?
- C1 — Danger present. Immediate risk. The electrician must act before leaving or isolate the affected circuit. Urgent remedial work required.
- C2 — Potentially dangerous. Must be remedied within 28 days. Results in an Unsatisfactory report.
- C3 — Improvement recommended. Not immediately dangerous. The report can still be Satisfactory with C3 codes present.
- FI — Further investigation required. The electrician could not fully assess an element. Must be investigated before a Satisfactory outcome can be confirmed.
How long does an EICR take?
A standard 3-bed house EICR takes 2–4 hours. During the inspection, each circuit is briefly disconnected for testing — expect short power interruptions. Most electricians issue the written report within 1–2 days; same-day reports are available on request (often at a small premium).
Frequently asked questions
How much does an EICR cost in the UK?
£150–£200 for a 1-bed flat; £200–£300 for a 3-bed house. London rates are higher.
How often do I need an EICR as a landlord?
Every 5 years, or sooner if the report specifies. You must also get a new one at the start of each new tenancy if the existing certificate has expired.
What happens if my EICR comes back Unsatisfactory?
Remedial work must be completed within 28 days (or less if specified). A follow-up inspection confirms the work — the property cannot be let until the report is Satisfactory.
Can any electrician carry out an EICR?
The electrician must be competent and ideally registered with NICEIC, NAPIT, or another approved scheme. EzeAla Trades only lists registered electricians for EICR bookings.
Need an EICR for your rental property?
Get fixed-price quotes from NICEIC/NAPIT-registered electricians. Payment held in escrow until the certificate is issued.
Book an EICR →