What is an EICR, and do I need one?
The electrical "MOT" explained in plain English, and how often homeowners, landlords and holiday lets should have one.
An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a full inspection and test of the fixed wiring in a property: the cables, sockets, switches, lights and the fuse board. Think of it as an MOT for your electrics.
How often?
- Homes you own: about every 10 years, or when you buy a house.
- Rented homes: landlords in England must have one at least every 5 years and give a copy to tenants.
- Holiday lets: more often, because of the wear from lots of different guests. Many insurers ask for one.
What the codes mean
- C1: danger present. We’ll make it safe straight away.
- C2: potentially dangerous. Needs fixing soon.
- C3: improvement recommended. Not dangerous, but worth doing.
- FI: further investigation needed.
A report with any C1, C2 or FI codes is “unsatisfactory” until they’re put right.