What an EICR is
An electrical installation condition report records the condition of a property's fixed electrical installation: the consumer unit, the wiring, sockets, switches and light fittings. A qualified electrician inspects and tests it and reports anything that's damaged, deteriorated, defective or doesn't meet current safety standards.
It doesn't cover portable appliances such as kettles and televisions – that's portable appliance testing, which is separate.
When you need one
Private landlords in England must have the installation inspected and tested at least every five years and give a copy of the report to tenants. Similar five-year requirements apply to private landlords in Scotland and to landlords in Wales under the Renting Homes rules. Northern Ireland has its own arrangements, so check current guidance there.
For homeowners, an EICR is recommended periodically – often every ten years for an owner-occupied home – and is a sensible check when you buy a house, before major work or if you notice problems.
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What the codes mean
Each observation in the report is given a code that shows how urgent it is:
| Code | Meaning | What it means for you |
|---|---|---|
| C1 | Danger present | Risk of injury – must be dealt with immediately |
| C2 | Potentially dangerous | Needs urgent remedial work |
| FI | Further investigation required | Needs investigating without delay |
| C3 | Improvement recommended | Not a reason for an unsatisfactory report |
EICR observation codes
What happens on the day
The power will be off for periods while circuits are tested. The electrician will need access to every room, the consumer unit and outside fittings. A small flat may take a few hours; a large house or HMO can take most of a day. You'll usually receive the report within a few days.
