What an EICR actually is.
An Electrical Installation Condition Report is a structured inspection of the fixed wiring in a property: the cables, the consumer unit, the sockets and switches. Not the appliances plugged into them, but the installation itself. An electrician tests each circuit and records the condition of what they find.
Who needs one, and when.
- Landlords. Rental properties in England must have a satisfactory report, renewed at least every five years, with a copy provided to tenants.
- Home buyers and sellers. Not legally required, but a report before purchase tells you whether you are buying a rewire without knowing it.
- Homeowners. Recommended roughly every ten years, or when something like frequent tripping, warm sockets or a very old fuse board suggests the installation is struggling.
- Businesses. Regular testing is part of demonstrating a safe workplace, and insurers increasingly ask to see it.
How to read the codes.
- C1: danger present. Something needs making safe immediately, and the electrician should do so before leaving.
- C2: potentially dangerous. Needs fixing promptly. The report will be unsatisfactory until it is.
- C3: improvement recommended. Not dangerous and does not fail the report. Worth doing when convenient.
- FI: further investigation needed before the installation can be signed off.
What happens on the day.
Circuits are tested one at a time, so power is only off in the area being tested. A typical house takes a few hours, and commercial premises are planned around your working hours. You get the report promptly afterwards, with the findings explained in plain English.
Asked about this.
How often does a rental property need an EICR?
At least every five years in England, or sooner if the previous report says so. A copy must go to tenants, and to the local authority if they ask for it.
Does a house sale need an EICR?
No law requires it, but surveyors flag old installations and buyers increasingly ask. A report before listing removes the surprise from the negotiation.
What if my EICR is unsatisfactory?
The report lists exactly what failed and how urgently it matters. Fix the C1 and C2 items and the installation can be certified satisfactory. You are free to use any electrician for the remedial work.