If you own or rent out a property in London, you've almost certainly heard about EICR certificates. But what exactly is an EICR, who needs one, and what happens during the inspection? This guide covers everything London landlords and homeowners need to know in 2026.
What Is an EICR Certificate?
An EICR — Electrical Installation Condition Report — is a formal document produced after a qualified electrician inspects and tests the fixed electrical installations in a property. It covers everything from the consumer unit (fuse board) and wiring to sockets, light fittings, and earthing arrangements.
The report identifies any defects, rates them by severity using standardised codes (C1 for danger present, C2 for potentially dangerous, C3 for improvement recommended, and FI for further investigation), and confirms whether the overall installation is satisfactory or unsatisfactory.
Is an EICR Legally Required?
For landlords: yes. Since 1 June 2020, The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 require all landlords in England to have a valid EICR for their rental properties. The report must be renewed every 5 years or at change of tenancy, whichever comes first.
Failure to comply can result in fines of up to £30,000 per breach. Local authorities can also arrange for remedial work themselves and recover costs from the landlord.
For homeowners: an EICR is not legally mandatory, but it is strongly recommended every 10 years. It's also essential when buying or selling a property, and many insurance providers now ask for one as part of their terms.
What Does an EICR Inspection Involve?
A qualified electrician will carry out a thorough visual inspection and a series of electrical tests across your property. This typically includes:
- Checking the condition and labelling of the consumer unit (fuse board)
- Testing all circuits for correct polarity, insulation resistance, and earth fault loop impedance
- Inspecting sockets, switches, and light fittings for damage or deterioration
- Verifying RCD (residual current device) operation and trip times
- Checking earthing and bonding connections
- Identifying any non-compliant or outdated wiring
For a typical 3-bedroom London flat, the inspection takes around 2–3 hours. Larger properties or those with older wiring may take longer. The power will need to be switched off briefly during testing, but we aim to minimise disruption.
How Much Does an EICR Cost in London?
EICR costs in London vary depending on the size of the property and the number of circuits. As a rough guide:
- 1-bedroom flat: £150–£200
- 2–3 bedroom house: £200–£300
- 4+ bedroom house: £300–£400
- HMO (House in Multiple Occupation): from £350
These are typical London prices — we offer competitive rates with no hidden extras. For a precise quote, contact us for a free, no-obligation estimate. For a broader breakdown of electrician costs, see our London electrician pricing guide.
What Happens If the EICR Fails?
If the inspection identifies C1 or C2 defects, the report will be marked as "unsatisfactory." Landlords are then legally required to complete all necessary remedial work within 28 days (or sooner for C1 danger-present faults) and provide evidence to their local authority.
Common reasons for a failed EICR include outdated fuse boards without RCD protection, deteriorated wiring insulation, missing earthing connections, and overloaded circuits. If your fuse board is due for an upgrade, our fuse board upgrade guide explains everything you need to know.
How to Choose an EICR Provider in London
When choosing an electrician for your EICR, look for:
- Membership of a Government-approved competent persons scheme (such as NAPIT)
- 18th Edition wiring regulations qualification (BS 7671)
- Public liability insurance (at least £2 million, ideally £5 million)
- Transparent, upfront pricing with no call-out charge
- Genuine customer reviews and a strong local reputation
OS Electrical Safety Ltd is NAPIT approved, 18th Edition qualified, DBS checked, and carries £5 million public liability insurance. We issue same-day certificates and serve every London borough. Learn more about our electrical certification services.
Book Your EICR in London
Whether you're a landlord needing to stay compliant or a homeowner wanting peace of mind, we make the EICR process straightforward. Free quotes, no call-out charge, and fast turnaround across all of London.
Need an EICR in London?
Call us for a free quote or book online. Same-day certificates available.