Landlord's Electrical Safety Certificate (EICR)

Do landlords need an electrical safety certificate?

Yes. In England, landlords must make sure the electrical installation in their rental property is inspected and tested by a properly qualified person at least every 5 years. This inspection is usually recorded in an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), often referred to as a landlord electrical safety certificate.

The report confirms whether the electrical installation is satisfactory for continued use and will state when the next inspection is due. Electrical safety standards must meet British Standard 7671, also known as the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations.

What are landlords required to do?

Landlords in England must:

• arrange for the electrical installation to be inspected and tested at least every 5 years
• obtain an EICR from the qualified person carrying out the inspection
• give a copy of the report to existing tenants within 28 days
• give a copy to a new tenant before they move in
• give a copy to a prospective tenant within 28 days if they ask for it in writing
• provide a copy to the local authority within 7 days if requested
• keep a copy of the report until the next inspection is due
• complete any remedial or further investigative work within 28 days, or sooner if the report specifies a shorter timescale

What happens if the report is unsatisfactory?

If the EICR identifies issues that need remedial work or further investigation, the landlord must make sure this is carried out within the required timeframe. Once completed, written confirmation should be obtained and provided as required. Local authorities enforce these regulations and can take action where landlords do not comply.

Failure to comply can lead to enforcement action and a financial penalty of up to £40,000.

Landlord EICR inspections in Carlisle and Cumbria

At SJD Electrical, we carry out landlord electrical safety inspections for rental properties across Carlisle and Cumbria. We provide clear reporting, explain any issues found, and can advise on any remedial work needed to help you stay compliant.

Based in Carlisle, we cover properties across Cumbria, including Cockermouth, Keswick, Penrith, Wigton, Brampton, Aspatria and Gilcrux.

If you need a landlord electrical safety certificate or would like a free quote for an EICR for your rental property, get in touch with SJD Electrical today.