EICR Reports Explained: What Landlords in Surrey Need to Know

Short answer: an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a legal requirement for landlords in England, and it must be carried out at least every 5 years, or at the start of a new tenancy if the last report has expired. It checks that a property’s electrical installation is safe, and any faults found are given a risk rating and must be fixed within a set timeframe.

What Is an EICR?

An EICR is an inspection and test of the fixed electrical installation in a property, covering the fuse board, wiring, sockets, and switches. It doesn’t test portable appliances (that’s a separate PAT test). The electrician checks for damage, wear, faults, and anything that no longer meets current safety standards (BS 7671).

At the end of the inspection, you’re given a report showing whether the installation is satisfactory, and listing any issues found along with how urgent they are.

Is an EICR a Legal Requirement for Landlords?

Yes. Since 2020, landlords in England must:

• Have the electrical installation inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every 5 years

• Obtain a report and provide a copy to tenants within 28 days of the inspection

• Provide a copy to new tenants before they move in

• Provide a copy to your local council within 7 days if requested

• Fix any issues classified as C1 or C2 within 28 days, or sooner if the report specifies

Failing to comply can result in fines from your local authority.

What Do the Codes on an EICR Mean?

Every issue found is given a classification code:

• C1: Danger present. Risk of injury. Requires immediate action.

• C2: Potentially dangerous. Urgent remedial action required.

• C3: Improvement recommended, but not a legal requirement to fix.

• FI: Further investigation required.

A property can only be marked “satisfactory” if there are no C1 or C2 codes outstanding.

How Long Does an EICR Take?

For a typical rental property, an EICR usually takes a few hours, depending on the size of the property and the number of circuits and sockets to test. Larger homes or properties with older wiring can take longer.

What Happens If My Property Fails?

An unsatisfactory result isn’t unusual, especially in older housing stock across Surrey and Hampshire. It simply means one or more issues need addressing. I’ll talk you through exactly what’s required, provide a clear quote for the remedial work, and issue a follow-up report once it’s complete so you have full, compliant documentation for your records and tenants.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do landlords need an EICR?

At least every 5 years, or sooner if specified in the previous report, or at the change of tenancy if the existing report has expired.

Do I need an EICR for a new tenancy?

You need a valid, in-date EICR before a new tenancy begins. If your existing report is still within its 5-year validity, you don’t need a new one just because tenants are changing.

What’s the difference between an EICR and a PAT test?

An EICR covers the fixed wiring and installation of the property itself. A PAT test covers portable appliances, like kettles or lamps supplied with the property. They’re separate checks.

Can I do an EICR myself?

No. It must be carried out by a qualified and competent electrician, and the report needs to reflect an independent, professional assessment to be valid for legal compliance purposes.

What happens if I don’t get an EICR done?

You risk a fine from your local council, and in the event of an electrical incident, a lack of valid certification could affect your insurance and any liability claim.

Book an EICR

We carry out EICRs for landlords and homeowners across Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire, including Aldershot, Farnborough, Farnham, Camberley and Fleet. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote: 07538 379157.