Yes, landlords in England are legally required to obtain an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) for all rental properties. The law applies under The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020. EICRs must be carried out every five years by a qualified electrician, and a copy must be provided to tenants within 28 days. Failure to comply can result in fines of up to £30,000. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have separate but broadly similar requirements. Always act on any C1 or C2 code outcomes immediately.
🏠Homeowner view
Do Landlords Need an EICR Certificate by Law?
If you are a landlord renting out a property in the UK, the short answer is yes — an EICR is a legal requirement, not optional. Here is what you need to know in plain English.
What Is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a formal inspection of all the fixed electrical wiring, fuse board (consumer unit), sockets, and light fittings in your property. A qualified electrician checks everything is safe and meets current standards.
When Did It Become Law?
In England, The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 came into force:
From 1 July 2020 for new tenancies
From 1 April 2021 for all existing tenancies
What Must Landlords Do?
Arrange an EICR at least every 5 years
Only use a competent, qualified electrician (ideally NICEIC or NAPIT registered)
Provide a copy of the EICR to existing tenants within 28 days
Give a copy to new tenants before they move in
Provide a copy to the local authority within 7 days if requested
If remedial work is recommended, it must be completed within 28 days (or sooner if urgent)
What Happens If I Don't Comply?
Your local council can issue a remedial notice and fine you up to £30,000 for non-compliance. This is a serious financial risk and could also affect your landlord insurance.
What About Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland?
Scotland: EICRs required every 5 years under the Housing (Scotland) Act 2014
Wales: Required under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
Northern Ireland: Regulations are in development but best practice is strongly advised
When Should You Call an Electrician?
If your EICR is overdue or has never been done
If the report shows a C1 (danger present) or C2 (potentially dangerous) outcome
If a tenant has reported electrical faults such as tripping breakers, sparking sockets, or flickering lights
Never attempt to fix electrical faults yourself — always use a qualified electrician registered with a competent person scheme.