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Chapter 01
What is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report is a formal assessment of the fixed electrical installation in a property — the wiring, sockets, consumer unit, switches and fixed appliances. A qualified and competent electrician inspects and tests the installation and records whether it is satisfactory or unsatisfactory, listing any observations by code.
Chapter 02
When is an EICR required?
Since 1 April 2021 the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations require a valid EICR for all private tenancies. You must obtain a report before a new tenancy and ensure the installation is inspected at least every five years thereafter — or more often if the report specifies.
Chapter 03
Validity periods
A satisfactory EICR is normally valid for five years, but the inspecting electrician can recommend a shorter interval based on the condition of the installation. Always check the recommended next inspection date on the report rather than assuming a flat five years.
Chapter 04
C1, C2 and C3 observations
| Code | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| C1 | Danger present — risk of injury. | Make safe immediately; report is unsatisfactory. |
| C2 | Potentially dangerous. | Remedy within 28 days; report is unsatisfactory. |
| C3 | Improvement recommended. | Not a failure; advisable but not required. |
| FI | Further investigation required. | Investigate; treated as unsatisfactory until resolved. |
A report is only 'satisfactory' if it has no C1, C2 or FI items. C3 observations do not make a report fail but represent good-practice upgrades worth budgeting for.
Chapter 05
Unsatisfactory reports and remedial works
- 1Obtain the report and identify any C1, C2 or FI items.
- 2Arrange remedial work with a qualified electrician within 28 days (sooner for C1 danger).
- 3Obtain written confirmation that the work has been completed and the installation is now safe.
- 4Supply that confirmation to the tenant within 28 days, and to the local authority on request.
Chapter 06
Typical costs
| Property | Indicative EICR cost |
|---|---|
| 1-bed flat | £120–£180 |
| 2–3 bed house | £150–£250 |
| 4+ bed / HMO | £250–£400+ |
Remedial works are extra and vary widely — a simple fix may be tens of pounds, while a full rewire can run into thousands. Budget for some remedial work, especially on older installations.
Chapter 07
EICR tracker
Record your EICR result and next-inspection date in DR Rent to get a live compliance status and timely reminders before the five-year deadline.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Official sources
Further reading and fact-checking
General guidance: This guide is for general information and does not replace legal or professional advice for your circumstances. Check current official guidance and your local authority's requirements.