Electrical safety reports (EICR) for landlords
In England, rented homes need their electrical installation inspected and tested at least every five years. This page summarises the duties in the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020.
Checked against official sources on 9 October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.
The short version
- Have the fixed electrics inspected and tested by a qualified person at intervals of no more than 5 years, or sooner if the latest report says so.
- Give the report to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection, and to new tenants before they move in.
- If the council asks in writing, send it within 7 days. If the report finds a problem, get the work done within 28 days (or sooner if the report says).
How often
The regulations say the installation must be inspected and tested by a qualified person at intervals of no more than five years. If the most recent report states a shorter interval, use that.
GOV.UK’s landlord guide puts it simply: electrics must be checked at least every five years by a properly qualified person.
Who must get the report, and when
Existing tenants: a copy within 28 days of the inspection and test.
New tenants: the most recent report before they move in.
Prospective tenants: the most recent report within 28 days of their written request.
The local housing authority (the council): a copy within 7 days of its written request.
What to keep
Keep a copy of the report until the next inspection is due, and give it to the person who carries out that next inspection.
If the report finds a problem
If the report shows work is needed, the landlord must arrange for a qualified person to complete it within 28 days, or within a shorter period if the report specifies one.
A note on the rules changing
These regulations were extended to the social rented sector in 2025. The points above are taken from the regulations as first made; check the current version on legislation.gov.uk if you rely on a specific detail.
Check the official pages
Certlog stores each EICR, shows the five-year date, and emails you before it is due, so you are not caught out at renewal. Free for 14 days, then £8.99 a month or £79 a year.
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