If you’re a landlord searching for “EICR London”, you’re likely trying to understand your legal responsibilities and avoid penalties. We speak to landlords across London every day, and one of the most common questions we hear is simple: Do I actually need an EICR?
The short answer is yes, but there’s more to it than that. Here’s everything you need to know.
What is an EICR and why does it matter for landlords?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a formal inspection of a property’s electrical system. We check whether your wiring, consumer unit, sockets, and circuits are safe and meet current UK standards.
For landlords in London, an EICR is not just recommended, it’s a legal requirement.
The purpose is straightforward. It ensures your tenants are living in a property with safe electrics, reducing the risk of electrical fires, shocks, or faults.
Is an EICR a legal requirement in London?
Yes. Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, all landlords must:
- Have a valid EICR carried out by a qualified electrician
- Ensure the inspection is done at least every 5 years
- Provide a copy of the report to tenants
- Carry out any required remedial work
These regulations apply to all rental properties across London, including flats, HMOs, and single-let homes.
We help landlords stay compliant by handling both the inspection and any follow-up work.
What happens if a landlord doesn’t have an EICR?
Failing to have a valid electrical safety certificate in London can lead to serious consequences.
Local authorities can:
- Issue fines of up to £30,000
- Request proof of compliance
- Enforce urgent remedial work
Beyond the legal risks, there’s also the safety side of matters. Faulty electrics are one of the leading causes of house fires in the UK. An up-to-date EICR is designed to help prevent that.
How often do landlords need an EICR?
Landlords must arrange an EICR every 5 years, or sooner if the report specifies a shorter interval.
You’ll also need a new inspection:
- Before a new tenancy begins (if the current report has expired)
- If significant electrical work has been carried out
- If a previous report recommends earlier re-testing
We always remind our clients when their next inspection is due, so nothing gets missed.
What does an EICR inspection involve?
When we carry out an EICR in London, we follow a thorough process designed to assess the full electrical installation.
This includes:
- Checking of wiring, sockets, and fittings
- Testing circuits and safety devices
- Checking earthing and bonding
- Identifying wear, damage, or outdated components
We aim to keep disruption minimal for tenants, but power may need to be temporarily switched off during testing.
Most inspections are completed within a few hours, depending on the size of the property.
What are EICR codes and what do they mean for landlords?
After the inspection, your report will include classification codes if issues are found.
Here’s what they mean:
- C1 (Danger present): Immediate action required
- C2 (Potentially dangerous): Urgent repairs needed
- C3 (Improvement recommended): Not mandatory, but advised
- FI (Further investigation): More checks required
If your report includes C1 or C2 issues, it will be marked as unsatisfactory, and you are legally required to fix them.
We don’t just issue the report. We explain everything clearly and can carry out all necessary remedial work to bring your property up to standard.
How much does an EICR cost for landlords in London?
The cost of EICR in London depends on the size and complexity of the property.
Typical pricing:
- Small flats: from around £100–£150
- Medium properties: £150–£250
- Larger or multi-unit properties: higher depending on layout
We keep our pricing transparent and competitive, with no hidden charges.
For landlords with multiple properties, we can also offer tailored pricing.
Can a property fail an EICR?
Yes, and it’s more common than many landlords expect.
Typical reasons include:
- Old or unsafe consumer units (fuse boards)
- Deteriorated wiring
- Lack of proper earthing
- Overloaded circuits
If your property fails, you’ll need to complete the required repairs within 28 days (or sooner if specified).
We handle this process from start to finish, so you don’t have to deal with multiple contractors.
Do tenants need a copy of the EICR?
Yes, as a landlord, you must:
- Provide the EICR to existing tenants within 28 days
- Give a copy to new tenants before they move in
- Supply the report to the local authority if requested
Keeping proper records is essential for compliance.
Fortunately, Certified Electricians provide clear, professional reports that are easy to share and understand.
Why choose Certified Electricians for your EICR in London?
We work with landlords across London every day, from single-property owners to large portfolios.
What sets us apart:
- Fully qualified and experienced electricians
- Fast turnaround and flexible scheduling
- Clear communication without unnecessary jargon
- Reliable support for both inspections and remedial work
We understand the pressure landlords face to stay compliant, especially with changing regulations. Our goal is to make the process as straightforward as possible.
How do you book an EICR in London?
If you need an EICR in London, booking with us is simple.
You can:
- Call us directly
- Request a quote through our website
- Arrange a convenient time for your tenants
We’ll handle the rest, from inspection to certification.
If you’re a landlord in London, having a valid EICR is not optional; it’s a legal requirement that protects both you and your tenants.
Staying compliant doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right electrician, it’s a quick and straightforward process.
If you’re unsure about your current certificate or need to arrange an inspection, simply contact us today.
