What is an EICR?
An EICR is a formal inspection and test of the fixed electrical installation in a property. It checks the condition of wiring, sockets, light fittings, the consumer unit, and the earthing and bonding arrangements. The report identifies any defects, deterioration, or non-compliance with current regulations.
Each item is classified using a coding system:
- C1 (Danger present): An immediate risk. Requires urgent action.
- C2 (Potentially dangerous): A fault that could become dangerous. Should be addressed promptly.
- C3 (Improvement recommended): Not currently dangerous, but an upgrade is advisable.
- FI (Further investigation): More testing is needed to determine the condition.
A report with no C1 or C2 codes receives a "satisfactory" outcome. Any C1 or C2 codes result in an "unsatisfactory" outcome, meaning remedial work is required.
Legal requirements for landlords
Since 1 April 2021, all landlords in England must have a valid EICR for their rental properties. The regulations require that:
- An EICR must be carried out before new tenants move in
- The report must be renewed at least every five years
- Any C1 or C2 defects must be remedied within 28 days (or sooner for C1)
- A copy of the report must be provided to tenants within 28 days
- The report must be provided to the local authority within seven days if requested
Failure to comply can result in fines of up to £30,000 per breach. Local authorities are increasingly enforcing these regulations, particularly in London boroughs.
EICRs for homeowners
While not a legal requirement for owner-occupiers, an EICR is recommended every 10 years for domestic properties. It is particularly important if:
- You are buying or selling a property
- Your home has not been inspected in over 10 years
- You suspect the wiring is old or deteriorating
- You are planning renovations or extensions
- Your insurer requires evidence of electrical safety
What to expect during an EICR
1. Visual inspection
We check the consumer unit, visible wiring, sockets, switches, and light fittings for signs of damage, wear, or non-compliance.
2. Testing
Each circuit is tested for insulation resistance, earth fault loop impedance, polarity, and RCD operation. This requires the power to be switched off to individual circuits during testing, but we work through the property systematically to minimise disruption.
3. Report
You receive a detailed EICR with observations coded using the classification system above. If any remedial work is needed, we provide a clear explanation and a quote for the repairs.
Pricing guidance
EICR pricing depends on the size of the property and the number of circuits. For a typical two to three bedroom property in Kingston or Surrey, expect to pay between £150 and £250. Larger properties with more circuits will cost more. We provide a fixed quote before starting.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an EICR take?
A typical domestic EICR takes two to four hours depending on the size of the property and the number of circuits. Access to all rooms, the loft, and the consumer unit is required.
Will the power be off during the inspection?
Individual circuits will be switched off during testing, but not all at once. You can usually continue to use parts of the property while the inspection is carried out.
What happens if the report is unsatisfactory?
We will explain the findings and provide a quote for the remedial work. For landlords, C1 and C2 defects must be rectified within the timeframes specified in the regulations. We can usually carry out the repairs and retest promptly.
Can you do the EICR and remedial work?
Yes. If the report identifies any defects, we can carry out the necessary repairs and issue an updated report confirming the work has been completed satisfactorily.