EICR: how often a landlord electrical inspection is required
How often an EICR is required for a UK rental, what C1/C2/C3 codes mean, the 28-day remediation rule, and what to give your tenants.
How often is an EICR required?
Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, a landlord must obtain an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) at least every 5 years, and at the start of any new tenancy. Wales follows the same 5-year cycle under separate regulations; Scotland requires an EICR every 5 years under the Repairing Standard.
The report must be issued by a qualified person - typically NICEIC, NAPIT or ELECSA registered - and signed off as 'satisfactory' for the property to be lawfully let.
Understanding the codes
C1 means danger present, risk of injury - immediate action required.
C2 means potentially dangerous - remedial work needed.
C3 means improvement recommended - not required to pass, but advisable.
FI means further investigation needed. Any C1, C2 or FI makes the report unsatisfactory and triggers the 28-day remediation rule.
The 28-day rule
If the EICR is unsatisfactory, you have 28 days (or the period the report specifies, whichever is shorter) to complete remedial work and obtain written confirmation from a qualified electrician that the installation now meets the standard. You must give both the original EICR and the remediation confirmation to your tenant within 28 days, and to the local authority within 28 days of any request.
What to keep on file
The signed EICR PDF, the electrician's qualification and registration body, the remediation completion certificate (if applicable), and proof you sent both to the tenant. CertMyHome holds these against the property and sends the next-due reminder 90, 60 and 30 days before expiry.
Frequently asked questions
How often does a landlord EICR need renewing?+
Every 5 years in England, Wales and Scotland, and at the start of any new tenancy. The report itself may specify a shorter interval if the inspector judges it necessary.
What is the maximum penalty for letting without a satisfactory EICR?+
Local authorities in England can impose financial penalties of up to £30,000 per breach.
Can I let a property with C3 codes outstanding?+
Yes - C3 is 'improvement recommended', not a fail. The report still counts as satisfactory and the property can be let.
Does an EICR cover portable appliances?+
No. PAT testing is separate and applies to any electrical appliances the landlord supplies (kettles, lamps, white goods). See the PAT testing guide.