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·GKW Electrical
Do I Need an EICR to Sell or Rent Out My House?
If you're selling or renting out a property in the UK, you may be wondering whether you need an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). The answer depends on whether you're a landlord or a seller.
EICR Requirements for Landlords
Since 1 April 2021, private landlords in England must:
- Have the electrical installation in their rental properties inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every 5 years
- Provide a copy of the EICR to new tenants before they move in
- Provide a copy to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection
- Provide a copy to the local authority if requested
Failure to comply can result in significant financial penalties.
Do Sellers Need an EICR?
There is currently no legal requirement for sellers to provide an EICR when selling a property in England. However:
- Many buyers and their solicitors now request one as part of the conveyancing process
- Mortgage lenders may require evidence of electrical safety
- Providing an EICR proactively can speed up your sale and avoid last-minute negotiations
What Does an EICR Involve?
A qualified electrician will:
- Visually inspect the installation
- Test circuits, earthing, and bonding
- Issue a report with coded observations (C1, C2, C3, FI)
What If My Property Fails?
- C1 (Danger present): Remedial work required immediately
- C2 (Potentially dangerous): Remedial work required urgently
- C3 (Improvement recommended): Not mandatory but advisable
- FI (Further investigation): Additional testing needed
The scope of an EICR depends on the size and complexity of the installation. Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote for your property.