EICR Testing in the UK: What It Is, Who Needs It, and How to Stay Compliant

Introduction

If you’re a homeowner, landlord, or business owner in the UK, understanding and completing your EICR testing obligations is essential. An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a professional assessment of your property’s electrical systems, ensuring they are safe, compliant, and fit for use.

In this guide, we’ll explain what EICR testing is, who needs it, how often it’s required, and how much it costs — helping you meet UK electrical regulations and protect your property.

What Is EICR Testing?

EICR stands for Electrical Installation Condition Report. It involves a qualified electrician inspecting and testing the fixed wiring (sockets, lights, fuse boards, etc.) within a building to identify:

• Electrical hazards
  
  

• Overloaded circuits
  
  

• Defective installations
  
  

• Lack of earthing or bonding
  
  

• Non-compliance with BS 7671 (18th Edition Wiring Regulations)
  
  

The test concludes with a report rating the condition of the installation and flagging any issues that require attention.

Is EICR Testing a Legal Requirement in the UK?

Yes — in many cases:

✅ Landlords (England)

As of 1 July 2020, private landlords must:

• Have a valid EICR carried out every 5 years
  
  

• Provide a copy to new tenants before move-in
  
  

• Give it to existing tenants within 28 days of the test
  
  

• Provide to the local authority within 7 days if requested
  
  

✅ Businesses and Commercial Properties

Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, employers are legally required to ensure electrical systems are safe. Regular EICR testing helps meet this obligation.

✅ Homeowners

Not legally required, but recommended:

• Every 10 years for owner-occupied homes
  
  

• Every 5 years for homes with swimming pools or electric vehicle chargers
  
  

• During buying/selling a property (often requested by mortgage lenders)
  
  

How Often Is EICR Testing Required?

Property Type

EICR Frequency

Rented residential

Every 5 years

Commercial buildings

Every 3–5 years

Owner-occupied homes

Every 10 years

Schools, public venues

Every 1–3 years

Construction sites

Every 3 months (temporary installations)

What Happens During an EICR?

1. Visual inspection – Check sockets, switches, fuse boards, and cables for damage or wear.
   
   

2. Electrical testing – Includes insulation resistance, earth continuity, polarity, and more.
   
   

3. Code classification – Defects are rated:
   
   

   • C1: Danger present – immediate action required
     
     

   • C2: Potentially dangerous – urgent action needed
     
     

   • C3: Improvement recommended
     
     

4. Report issued – You receive a full Electrical Installation Condition Report.
   
   

What Does a Satisfactory EICR Mean?

Your EICR must not include any C1 or C2 faults. If it does:

• The property is considered unsatisfactory
  
  

• You must arrange for remedial work and retesting
  
  

• A new EICR or confirmation of completed work must be issued
  
  

How Much Does an EICR Cost in the UK?

Costs vary by property size and location, but average prices are:

Property Type

Estimated Cost (2025)

1-bed flat

£100–£150

3-bed house

£150–£250

Large home (4+ beds)

£250–£400+

Small commercial unit

£200–£300

Note: Prices may increase if access is difficult or additional circuits are present.

Why Is EICR Testing Important?

• ✅ Ensures legal compliance
  
  

• ✅ Reduces risk of electric shock or fire
  
  

• ✅ Protects tenants, staff, and visitors
  
  

• ✅ May be required for home insurance or mortgage approval
  
  

• ✅ Essential for property sales or rentals
  
  

Choosing the Right Electrician for EICR Testing

Always use a qualified and registered electrician with:

• Membership in a competent person scheme (NICEIC, NAPIT)
  
  

• Experience in domestic or commercial testing
  
  

• Ability to provide official certification and documentation
  
  

You can check credentials at: https://electricalcompetentperson.co.uk/

Conclusion

EICR testing in the UK is not just a box-ticking exercise — it's a crucial step toward ensuring the safety and compliance of your home or rental property. Whether you’re a landlord needing to meet legal requirements or a homeowner doing due diligence, booking a periodic inspection with a qualified electrician helps you stay safe and stay compliant.

Need a certified EICR inspection? Search “EICR testing near me UK” or contact a local NICEIC/NAPIT-registered electrician to get started.

https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/media/mi1oqkur/best-practice-guide-4-issue-7-1.pdf