An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is more than just paperwork — it’s a legal requirement for many landlords and property managers. This guide explains what an EICR is, who needs one, common myths, and how to stay compliant without stress.
Introduction
If you manage rental properties or oversee maintenance for a portfolio, there’s one document that could prevent enforcement action, avoid huge fines — and most importantly, keep your tenants safe: the EICR.
Yet, despite the legal requirements, many landlords and property professionals are still unsure what it is, when it’s needed, and what happens if they don’t have one. This post will clarify everything and help you stay ahead of the curve in 2025.
🧾 Bonus: Download our free EICR Checklist at the end of this post to ensure you’re fully covered.
What Is an EICR?
An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a formal inspection of your property’s fixed wiring, carried out by a qualified electrician.
It checks whether your installation is:
- Safe for continued use
- Free from immediate or potential fire/electric shock risks
- Up to standard with current regulations (BS 7671)
- Suitable for the demands placed on it (e.g. overloaded circuits)
The report will either be satisfactory or unsatisfactory, and observations are coded by risk level (C1, C2, C3, FI).
Who Needs an EICR?
You likely do if you’re any of the following:
- A home seller wanting to show buyers the electrics are in good shape
- A residential landlord in England (legal requirement every 5 years)
- A HMO operator or housing association
- A property manager or estate agent managing compliance on behalf of clients
- A developer handing over new tenancies
- A home seller wanting to show buyers the electrics are in good shape
⚠️ Landlords can face fines up to £30,000 for not having a valid EICR in place.
Myth-Busting: EICR Edition
Let’s clear up a few common myths:
❌ “It’s just a certificate.”
Nope. It’s a full inspection and condition report — not just a tick-box exercise. It must be done by a competent person, with proper documentation.
❌ “If I get an unsatisfactory result, I’ve failed.”
Not true. An EICR isn’t pass/fail. It flags issues for you to fix. C1s and C2s should be addressed to make it compliant — but it’s an opportunity, not a penalty.
❌ “My electrician didn’t mention it, so I must not need one.”
Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean you’re exempt. If you’re the duty holder, it’s your legal responsibility — not theirs — to stay compliant.
What Happens After the EICR?
If your report is satisfactory, you’re covered — usually for 5 years.
If it’s unsatisfactory, you’ll receive a list of observations:
C3: Improvement recommended (doesn’t affect compliance)
C1: Immediate danger – must be made safe on the day
C2: Potentially dangerous – needs fixing to achieve compliance
FI: Further investigation required
At Anova, we’ll always explain the results clearly and offer a follow-up quote with no pressure.
Why Anova?
You’ll see a lot of electricians offering EICRs. Here’s why people choose us:
- Friendly, professional engineers who explain things clearly
- Transparent reports and jargon-free guidance
- Same-day testing available
- Reminder service so you never miss a deadline
- Digital reports & compliance tracking
- In-house remedial works to fix any issues quickly
In commercial installations, consumer units (distribution boards) must also meet fire resistance and accessibility standards.
These often fall under additional regulations such as the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
All reports are checked by a NICEIC approved qualified supervisor, ensuring full compliance with BS 7671 and legal requirements.
Free Download: Your EICR Checklist
Not sure what to expect?
It’s perfect for landlords, agents, and anyone managing properties.
Ready to Book?
If your EICR is overdue — or you’re unsure when it was last done — don’t wait contact us today.
Contact us today for advice, a second opinion, or to book a consumer unit upgrade or electrical inspection.
📞 Call: 02080516482
📩 Email: info@anovauk.com
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