If you are a landlord in England, having a valid electrical safety certificate is not optional. It is a legal requirement that carries fines of up to £30,000 for non-compliance. This guide explains everything you need to know for 2026.
What Is a Landlord Electrical Safety Certificate?
The official name is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). It is a detailed inspection of all the fixed electrical wiring in a rental property, carried out by a qualified and registered electrician. The report identifies any defects, deterioration, or non-compliance with current safety standards.
The Legal Requirements
Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must:
1. Have a valid EICR for every tenancy, carried out by a qualified person
2. Ensure the EICR is no more than 5 years old
3. Provide a copy to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection
4. Provide a copy to new tenants before they move in
5. Provide a copy to the local authority within 7 days if requested
6. Complete any remedial work identified within 28 days
What Happens If You Do Not Comply?
Local authorities can issue fines of up to £30,000 per breach. They can also arrange for remedial work to be carried out and charge the cost back to the landlord. In serious cases, non-compliance can affect your ability to serve Section 21 notices.
What Does the Inspection Cover?
The electrician will test every circuit in the property including the consumer unit, earthing and bonding, all socket outlets, light fittings, switches, and any fixed electrical equipment. The inspection typically takes 2-4 hours for a standard property.
How Much Does It Cost?
EICR prices in London typically range from £150 for a small flat to £250 or more for a larger house. This is a small price to pay compared to the potential £30,000 fine for non-compliance. See our full EICR pricing page for details.
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Related: Do I Need an EICR? | All Our Services
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