EICR Testing: How Often Do You Really Need It?

What is an EICR?

An EICR is a formal inspection of a property’s fixed electrical installation. It assesses whether the system is safe for continued use and identifies faults, deterioration or risks that could lead to electric shock, fire or equipment failure.

The report includes:

• A professional safety rating of the installation

• A list of defects and non compliance items

• Required actions categorised by urgency

• Whether the property is safe or unsafe for continued use

Once the condition is confirmed, the property either receives a satisfactory outcome or an unsatisfactory outcome which requires remedial work.

How Often is an EICR Required for Rental Properties?

For residential rental properties in England, Scotland and Wales, the legal standard is clear:

EICR must be carried out at least every 5 years for rented properties.

It must also be completed sooner if any of the following apply:

• A new tenancy begins

• Major electrical work has been done

• The previous inspection recommended an earlier date

The certificate must be provided to incoming tenants before they move in and to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection being completed.

How Often is an EICR Required for Commercial Properties?

Commercial properties fall under the Electricity at Work Regulations which require electrical systems to be maintained in a safe condition. There is no fixed number of years stated, but industry standards recommend:

• Every 5 years for most commercial premises

• Every 3 years for industrial environments

• Every 1 year for high risk environments such as swimming pools or theatres

Insurance providers and corporate risk managers often expect evidence of ongoing safety and maintenance, and many will not honour claims if no EICR has been carried out.

When Should EICR Be Renewed Earlier Than the Minimum?

Electrical safety is influenced by usage, system age and environmental conditions. It is good practice to renew the EICR before expiry when:

• The building undergoes refurbishment or rewiring

• High energy consumption equipment is installed

• There are reports of tripping circuits or overheating

• A fire or near miss occurs

• Water ingress or damp issues develop

• Electrical equipment is regularly overloaded

Even if the five year period has not elapsed, safety concerns should trigger an early inspection.

What Happens If a Property Fails the EICR?

If the outcome is unsatisfactory, the landlord or responsible person must complete the remedial work and obtain written confirmation that the installation is now safe.

The EICR will contain codes:

• C1 means immediate danger and immediate action is required

• C2 means potentially dangerous and urgent work is required

• C3 means improvement is recommended but not mandatory

A property with a C1 or C2 outcome is legally unsafe until the issues are resolved.

Penalties for Missing or Ignoring EICR Requirements

Failure to comply can result in:

• Local authority fines up to £30,000 pounds for rental properties

• Enforcement notices and prohibition notices for commercial premises

• Invalidated insurance in the event of a fire or electrical incident

• Legal liability for injury, death or property damage

If a landlord ignores electrical safety duties and a tenant is harmed, the consequences can include criminal prosecution.

Best Practice Recommendations

To stay compliant and avoid risk:

• Schedule EICR renewal every 5 years for rentals and every 3 to 5 years for commercial premises

• Use a qualified and competent electrician registered with a recognised body

• Retain both the report and proof of completed remedial works

• Align EICR dates with other safety inspections such as Fire Risk Assessments and Emergency Lighting tests

• Share EICR copies with tenants, managing agents and insurers when requested

A proactive approach strengthens safety, reduces risk of claims and protects the long term value of the property.

The question is not only how often you need an EICR, but how long you are comfortable leaving electrical safety unchecked. A five year schedule is the legal minimum for rental properties, but safety risks can emerge long before the deadline. Treating electrical testing as preventative maintenance rather than a regulatory burden ensures that tenants, employees and the property itself remain protected.