EICR Explained: Electrical Safety Certificates for Landlords

What an EICR is, when landlords are legally required to have one, what the C1, C2, C3 and FI classification codes mean, and how often the report needs renewing.

If you let a property, an EICR is one of the most important safety documents you need. Yet many landlords are unsure what it is, when it is required, or how to read the report they are given. This guide explains the Electrical Installation Condition Report in plain English — what it covers, the legal requirements, and what the classification codes actually mean.

What is an EICR?

An EICR — Electrical Installation Condition Report — is a formal assessment of the fixed electrical installation in a property: the wiring, consumer unit (fuse board), sockets, switches and other permanent electrics. A qualified electrician inspects and tests the installation and reports on its condition, identifying any damage, deterioration, defects or dangerous conditions. The result is recorded as either satisfactory or unsatisfactory, with any issues classified by code.

Are EICRs a legal requirement?

For rented homes in England, yes. Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must ensure the fixed electrical installation is inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years, provide a copy of the report to tenants, and carry out any remedial work identified. The requirement applies to most private tenancies, and similar duties apply in the social rented sector. Failing to comply can lead to significant financial penalties.

What do the C1, C2, C3 and FI codes mean?

• C1 — Danger present. Risk of injury; immediate action required. An installation with a C1 is unsatisfactory.
• C2 — Potentially dangerous. Urgent remedial action required. A C2 also makes the report unsatisfactory.
• C3 — Improvement recommended. Not dangerous and does not fail the report, but worth addressing.
• FI — Further investigation required. Something needs to be looked at in more detail; this also results in an unsatisfactory report.

What happens if your property fails?

If an EICR is unsatisfactory — because it contains a C1, C2 or FI — the regulations require the landlord to carry out the remedial or investigative work, generally within 28 days (or sooner if the report specifies), and to obtain written confirmation that the work has been completed and the installation is now safe. A C1 in particular should be made safe immediately, as it indicates a present danger.

How often do you need one?

For rented property the legal maximum is five years, though the inspecting electrician may recommend a shorter interval based on the condition of the installation. It is also good practice to obtain a fresh EICR when buying a property, before a new tenancy where the age of the wiring is unknown, or after major electrical work.

Booking an EICR with RS Construction

RS Construction and Property Services Ltd carries out electrical inspection, testing and remedial works for landlords, homeowners and property managers across East London and London, using NICEIC-registered electricians. We can inspect and test your installation, issue the report, and complete any remedial work identified — so your property is safe, compliant and properly documented. Contact us to arrange an EICR or electrical works.