EICR Explained: What Is an Electrical Installation Condition Report?
An EICR is a formal inspection and report on the condition of the electrical installation in a property. Whether you're a homeowner, landlord, or tenant in {location}, understanding what an EICR involves — and when you need one — could protect your property, your tenants, and your legal standing.
What Does an EICR Check?
A qualified electrician will inspect and test:
- The consumer unit (fuse box) — is it up to date and properly protected?
- Wiring condition — is the cable insulation degraded, damaged, or overheating?
- Earthing and bonding — are your safety earth connections adequate?
- Sockets, switches, and light fittings — are they correctly wired and in good condition?
- RCD operation — do your safety trip switches respond within the required time?
- Circuit loading — are circuits overloaded for the cable size?
The inspection is thorough and typically takes 3–4 hours for an average three-bedroom house. The electrician will need access to every room, the consumer unit, and the loft space.
The Classification System
Any issues found are classified using a standard coding system:
- C1 — Danger present: An immediate risk to anyone using the installation. Must be fixed urgently
- C2 — Potentially dangerous: A fault that could become dangerous. Must be addressed promptly
- C3 — Improvement recommended: Not a current safety risk but would improve the installation. Advisory only
- FI — Further investigation required: A potential issue that needs more investigation to classify
An overall outcome of Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory is given. An unsatisfactory result means C1 or C2 faults were found that need remedial work.
Who Needs an EICR?
Landlords: Since 1 April 2021, the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 require all landlords to have an EICR carried out by a qualified person at least every 5 years. A copy must be provided to tenants within 28 days and to the local authority on request. Non-compliance can result in fines of up to £30,000.
Homeowners: There is no legal requirement for owner-occupiers, but an EICR is strongly recommended every 10 years (or when buying a property, after major works, or if the installation is more than 25 years old). Many home insurance policies now ask whether an EICR has been carried out.
Businesses: Employers have a duty under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 to maintain safe electrical systems. Regular EICRs help demonstrate compliance.
How Much Does an EICR Cost?
In {location}, a domestic EICR typically costs:
- 1-bed flat: £120–£180
- 3-bed house: £180–£280
- 5-bed house: £250–£400
These prices cover the inspection and report only. Any remedial work required will be quoted separately.
Choosing the Right Electrician
An EICR must be carried out by a qualified and competent electrician. Look for registration with a recognised competent person scheme such as NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA. Ask for proof of registration and check it online before booking. A properly conducted EICR gives you a clear, documented picture of your electrical safety — and for landlords, it's not optional.