Everything landlords need to know about the Electrical Installation Condition Report — what it covers, how often it is required, and what the defect codes mean.
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is the formal inspection and testing of a property’s electrical installation. In England, electrical safety regulations require periodic inspection and testing across private and social rented homes, with transitional deadlines applying to some existing social tenancies.
What an EICR Covers
- Consumer unit condition
- Circuit integrity
- Earthing & bonding
- Socket, switch & lighting checks
- Identification of defects (C1, C2, FI)
How Often You Need an EICR
- At intervals of no more than 5 years for rented homes in England covered by the regulations, or sooner when the previous report requires it
- At change of tenancy (recommended)
- After major electrical works
Defect Codes Explained
- C1 — Danger present. Risk of injury; immediate action required.
- C2 — Potentially dangerous. Urgent remedial action required.
- FI — Further investigation required without delay.
Why TrustVault
NICEIC electricians, digital reporting, transparent remedial pricing, and automatic renewal reminders so a certificate never lapses.