Notes

"Ask Me Anything," 10 Responses To Your Questions About Electrical Safety Certificate
Electrical Certificate For Landlords

Landlords who own residential properties in England are legally required to conduct electrical safety inspections and tests on their property on a regular basis.

They are also known as EICRs (Electrical Installation Condition Reports). These reports are usually completed by an engineer or other qualified person.

The law

You might be aware that electrical safety checks are required for landlords who rent out residential properties. This is to protect your tenants from fires and electric shocks.

The new laws went into force in July 2020 and they will be applicable to new or renewed tenancies following that date. All rental properties in England must have an electrical safety certificate (EICR) beginning in April 2021.

It's not always easy, however. It's a complex document that should only be completed by qualified electricians.

A classification code can also be used to determine the risk level of the wiring installation. This will determine if repair work is required prior the inspection. If the C3 classification code is issued, then you may need to upgrade your wiring system.

However, if the electrical system on your property is in good condition, you should be able to prove that reasonable steps were implemented to ensure it's in compliance with safety standards. You should be able to prove that you've attempted to organize the required work, such as communicating with your tenant and electricians.

You may also prove that you're complying with regulations by presenting your property for inspection by the local authority. The local authorities are accountable for enforcing the law and they may issue you a notice of intent to fine you if they determine that you're not fulfilling your obligations under the law.

Contact us if a private landlord and would like to learn more about new regulations or need advice on how to fulfill your legal obligations. Our team can help explain your obligations and give you advice on how to get an EICR. We'll also guide you in adhering by the new regulations and ensure your rental properties conform to the most recent guidelines.

Tenancy agreements

A tenancy agreement is a contract that allows landlords to lease their property for a set period of time. These agreements usually have a set term and cannot be changed by either party. They also contain the amount of rent to be paid and the date by which it must be paid.

There are various types of tenancy agreements , based on the length of the tenancy and kind of property that is being let. They include the term-for years tenancy (or periodic tenancy) as well as the tenancy at your discretion and the tenancy for suffering.

Selecting the best type of contract is a difficult decision for both landlords and tenants. It's a balancing act between the flexibility provided by short-term tenancies that could mean empty periods and additional expenses such as advertising for rentals, and also the security provided by longer tenancies that ensure your income is guaranteed.

The decision of the landlord is important as it will affect the amount the property can be rented out for and the length of time the tenant can remain in the house for. Long-term tenancies are generally more desirable because they offer security for both the landlord and tenant.

An electrical certificate is proof that electrical equipment in a building can be used safely. This can save landlords and tenants money over the long run. An valid EICR can be used in the event of an inspection by the local authority, and it could also give tenants peace of mind since they know that you've taken measures to ensure their safety.

In addition, it could protect you from a fine in the event that you fail to comply with the regulations. If a local authority believes you've failed to take reasonable precautions to ensure the safety of your tenants they'll issue a corrective notice to you, requiring you to complete the work required within the timeframe specified or face a financial penalty.

The regulations apply to new tenancies and existing ones and you should therefore take the time to schedule an electrical inspection before April 2021 if it is possible. A valid EICR is valid for five years.

Requirements for remedial work

As a landlord, you are legally obliged as a property owner to ensure that your property meets the requirements of the regulations. This includes having a valid EICR and any needed remedial work.

You can be fined upto PS30,000 if your property does not meet the requirements. Or, the local authority could issue a notice to you, requesting that you carry in order to meet the regulations.

You must ensure that your property is secure by enlisting a licensed electrician to make any repairs. It is also advisable to request your tenants to verify that the person who does the work is a registered electrician.

When an electrician visits a property they will make sure that all the electrical components conform to British Standards and are safe for use. This will then result in them issuing an inspection report (usually an EICR) that details the findings of their inspection and test.

The report could indicate that the electrical systems have been tested and are safe to continue using, or recommend further investigation. If the report is able to identify both C1 and C2 dangers the tenant will have to ensure that they are safe before they move in.

However even if the report recommends improvement , but does not require further investigative or remedial work to be completed, it will still be recommended to complete this work to meet electrical safety regulations.

If you are a landlord and are not sure about the condition of your property, it's recommended to speak with your letting agent and decide what steps they could take. Your letting agent can help arrange for an inspection of your property by an experienced electrician. They can also help you get a copy of an EICR and offer advice on any further works that need to be completed.

How do you get an EICR?

If you're a landlord of an apartment or rented space it is essential to obtain an electrical certificate (EICR) and keep it current. electrical installation certificates is because it provides you with legal protection and the peace of mind that comes from knowing your property is safe.

An EICR report is one that detects any problems or damage to your property's electrical systems. It also provides recommendations for improvement and help to ensure that your property is in compliance with UK law.

The report is available by making contact with a reliable electrical contractor. They will then perform an inspection on your electrics, assessing the overall condition of the installation.

Landlords should ensure that they carry out an EICR is carried out at least every five years or after a change of the tenancy. It is possible to reduce the frequency dependent on the property and any unusual circumstances such as flooding or fire.

A qualified electrician can give you the most accurate advice on what kind of EICR you require for your property depending on the size, use and other aspects. They will also be able to provide an estimate for the report. This can be a flat rate or a per circuit price.


To get the most from your EICR, you need to select a technician with years of experience in the field and who is a member of the Electrical Competent Person Scheme. These qualifications are the only way to be sure that you're hiring a reliable and skilled technician to carry out the inspection.

Ask your electrician if they could provide you with insurance for the work they perform. This will shield you from any unexpected costs should problems arise.

Once you've found the right electrician, you'll need to decide on a date when the EICR to be completed. The process typically takes between two and four hours.

The results of the EICR will be delivered to you within 28 days after the inspection. The information will be accessible for you to provide to your local authority or prospective tenants.

Website: https://www.electricians-r-us.co.uk/electrical-certificates/