How this affects you as a Landlord:

The regulations require that the electrics are inspected at least once every 5 years (and in some circumstances more frequently) and a “satisfactory” Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is in place for any tenancy starting, renewing, or becoming periodic on or after 1st July 2020, and for all existing tenancies from 1st April 2021. The reports will need to be provided to your Tenants on move in or within 28 days of completion for existing tenancies, and a copy must also be given to the local authority within 7 days if requested.

What is an EICR?

An EICR is the report produced following a periodic inspection of the electrics. The electrician will test and inspect the consumer unit (or fuse board), wiring and electrical accessories for faults or deviations from the Wiring Standards.

The following will be tested as part of this:

  • The adequacy of the earthing and bonding.
  • Devices for protection against fire and electric shock.
  • Any damage or wear and tear that might affect the safety of the property’s inhabitants.
  • Identification of any damaged electrical fittings and accessories.
  • Identification of any exposed live wires that could cause a fire or injury.

EICRs can only be carried out by registered electricians with the relevant skills and competencies.

EICRs will highlight any problems using the below error faults.

  • C1 indicates immediate danger requiring immediate action
  • C2 indicates potential danger requiring urgent action
  • C3 recommends improvements

For the EICR to comply with the legislation it cannot have any C1 or C2 faults. Any remedial work to rectify these faults will need to be completed within 28 days (or sooner if C1) and written confirmation confirming that the work has been carried out needs to be obtained and retained until the next EICR.

A copy of the report and confirmation of remedial works will need to be shared with the Tenant on move in or within 28 days if the Tenants are already in situ – we will do this on your behalf. Prospective Tenants can also request this information.

I already have an EICR, I don’t need a new one:

The EICR must comply with the 2018 edition of the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671:2018) and be carried out by a qualified professional so if the report was completed before 2nd July 2018 then you will need a retest.

If it was completed between 2nd July 2018 and 1st January 2019 then it may be compliant, but we will need to check with the electrician.

What happens if I don’t take action?

You could face a fine of up to £30,000 for each breach of the regulations and you will not be able to serve notice on your Tenant.

The local authority will be monitoring Landlords to ensure any necessary remedial work is undertaken. If they that you have not complied with the regulations, then they will serve a remedial notice on you and us giving you a time frame to complete the works. If works are not completed, they will complete them and charge you.