What Is an EICR? The Complete Guide to Electrical Inspection Reports (2026)

An EICR — Electrical Installation Condition Report — is an inspection of a property's fixed electrical installation. For landlords, it is now a legal requirement. For homeowners, it's the best way to know whether your electrics are safe before buying, renovating, or remortgaging.

What is an EICR?

An EICR is a formal assessment carried out by a registered electrician. It tests and inspects the fixed wiring, sockets, switches, consumer unit (fuse box), earthing, and bonding in a property. The report grades any defects using a standardised code system and says whether the installation is "Satisfactory" or "Unsatisfactory."

An EICR does not cover portable appliances (that's a PAT test), solar panels (which have separate requirements), or anything not part of the fixed installation.

When is an EICR legally required?

For landlords: Since 1 April 2021, all private landlords in England must have a valid EICR for every rented property. The rules are:

• An 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 (or a shorter period if specified).
• The local authority can impose fines of up to £30,000 for non-compliance.

Scotland has had a similar requirement since 2015 under the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006.

For homeowners and buyers: An EICR is not legally required for owner-occupied homes, but is strongly recommended. It is often requested by mortgage lenders, and is standard practice before a major renovation or rewire.

What do the EICR codes mean?

The report assigns codes to any defects found:

C1 — Danger present. Immediate risk. The electrician must take action before leaving the property (or isolate the affected circuit). Remedial work is urgent.

C2 — Potentially dangerous. A fault that could become dangerous. Must be remedied within 28 days.

C3 — Improvement recommended. The installation does not meet current standards but is not immediately dangerous. The overall report can still be "Satisfactory" with C3 codes present.

FI — Further investigation required. The electrician couldn't fully assess a particular element. Further investigation must be completed.

A report with only C3 codes (no C1, C2, or FI) is classed as "Satisfactory." C1 or C2 codes result in an "Unsatisfactory" report, which means the property cannot legally be let until the issues are remedied.

How much does an EICR cost?

EICR costs in 2026:

• 1-bed flat: £150–£200
• 2-bed house: £175–£250
• 3-bed house: £200–£300
• 4-bed house: £250–£400
• HMO (per room): Additional £20–£40 per room

London and the South East are typically at the upper end of these ranges. A large, old property with complex wiring may cost more. Some electricians charge per circuit rather than per property — clarify the pricing model before booking.

On EzeAla Trades, you receive fixed-price quotes from NICEIC/NAPIT-registered electricians. The price includes the written report and certificate.

How long does an EICR take?

A standard EICR takes 2–4 hours for a typical 3-bed house, longer for larger or older properties. The electrician needs access to every room and the consumer unit. They'll test each circuit by disconnecting it briefly — this means your power will go off momentarily for each circuit tested.

Most electricians can issue the report within 1–2 days of the inspection. If urgent (e.g., before a tenancy starts), many will issue it the same day.

EICR expiry and renewal

An EICR is valid for:

• 5 years for rental properties (or less if the report specifies)
• 10 years for owner-occupied properties (general guidance)
• Less if remedial work was required — the new inspection following the remedial work resets the clock

EzeAla Trades tracks EICR expiry dates per property. You'll receive reminders at 60 and 30 days before expiry — so your certificate never lapses accidentally between tenancies.