Why Landlords Need an EICR

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a legal requirement for landlords. It assesses the safety of a property's wiring, sockets, fuse boxes, and fixed electrical components. Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must obtain an EICR every five years or before a new tenancy begins.

Failing to comply can lead to fines of up to £30,000 and potential legal issues if unsafe electrics cause harm.

Challenges for Landlords

1. Aging Properties & Electrical Systems

  • Many properties in the Worthing area, especially Victorian and mid-century homes, may have outdated electrical installations.
  • Older wiring and consumer units (fuse boxes) often fail modern safety tests.

2. Changing Regulations & Compliance

  • Electrical safety regulations are strict, and non-compliance can lead to heavy fines.
  • Future updates to energy efficiency laws may require further electrical upgrades.

3. Safety & Tenant Satisfaction

  • Ensuring safe electrics reduces the risk of electrical fires and liability issues.
  • Safe and well-maintained properties improve tenant confidence and rental appeal.

Practical Tips for Landlords

  • Schedule EICRs on time: Don’t wait—book an inspection every 5 years or before a tenancy starts.
  • Upgrade outdated systems: If your property has an old fuse board or worn-out wiring, update it before issues arise.
  • Use a Qualified Electrician: Only hire an 18th Edition-certified electrician, like J Electrical Services.
  • Act on EICR findings: If the report highlights urgent issues, fix them immediately to stay compliant.
  • Keep EICR records: Store reports safely for at least 5 years in case of council inspections.
  • Educate tenants: Teach tenants about electrical safety, including not overloading sockets and reporting faults early.

How J Electrical Services Can Help

J Electrical Services, based in Worthing, offers:
✔️ EICR Testing & Certification
✔️ Full or Partial Rewiring
✔️ Consumer Unit Upgrades
✔️ Emergency Electrical Repairs

They are fully insured, CHAS registered, and City & Guilds qualified, ensuring your property meets legal and safety standards.

Contact J Electrical Services at 01903 831414 or visit J Electrical Services Website for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does an EICR inspection take?

A standard EICR inspection takes between 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on the property size and electrical complexity.

2. What happens if my property fails an EICR test?

If your report flags urgent issues (Code C1 or C2 faults), repairs must be completed within 28 days, or sooner if deemed a danger. A Code C3 suggests improvements but isn’t legally required.

3. Do I need a new EICR for every tenant?

No, as long as your EICR is still valid (within 5 years), you do not need a new one for each new tenant.

4. Can I rent out my property without an EICR?

No. Since April 2021, all private rental properties in England must have a valid EICR before being rented out.

5. How much does an EICR cost in Worthing?

Costs vary but typically range from £150–£300, depending on property size and condition.

6. What’s the difference between an EICR and PAT testing?

  • EICR: Checks fixed electrical systems (wiring, fuse boards, sockets).
  • PAT Testing: Tests portable appliances (kettles, fridges, microwaves).

Landlord’s EICR Checklist

✔️ Book an EICR test every 5 years (or before a new tenancy)
✔️ Check for outdated wiring & fuse boards
✔️ Use only certified electricians
✔️ Fix issues flagged in the EICR promptly
✔️ Keep EICR reports for at least 5 years
✔️ Inform tenants about electrical safety