What is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)?

Ensuring the safety of your electrical installations is crucial—especially for landlords and homeowners in the UK. That’s where the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) comes in.

At Winstanley Electrical, we help you stay compliant with the latest safety regulations by providing EICR testing and certification services across the North West.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

• What an EICR is

• Why it’s legally required for rental properties

• How often you should get one

• What’s included in an EICR inspection

• Common issues found during inspections

What is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)?

An EICR is a formal report that assesses the condition of your property’s fixed electrical systems, such as sockets, switches, light fittings, and fuse boards. It helps to identify potential hazards and ensures that your electrical installation remains safe for continued use.

EICRs are commonly required in rented properties, but homeowners can also benefit from regular inspections—especially before selling a house or after major renovation work.

Why Do You Need an EICR?

For Landlords:

The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 make EICRs a legal requirement. Every rental property must undergo a full electrical inspection at least every five years to ensure tenant safety.

Failure to comply can lead to:

• Fines of up to £30,000

• Local councils requesting your EICR report at any time

• The legal obligation to fix any identified faults promptly

For Homeowners:

While not legally required, many homeowners choose to have an EICR:

• For peace of mind regarding electrical safety

• To identify hidden issues before they become costly repairs

• To reassure potential buyers during a property sale

When Should You Get an EICR?

• Rental properties: Every five years or at the start of a new tenancy

• Homeowners: Every 10 years, or every 5 years if the property has a swimming pool

• Before buying or selling a property: An EICR can highlight hidden electrical faults

• After major renovations or after flood/fire damage

What Does an EICR Cover?

During an EICR inspection, a qualified electrician from Winstanley Electrical will assess the fixed electrical systems within your property. This includes:

✅ Light fittings and switches✅ All accessible plug sockets✅ Consumer units (fuse boards)✅ Any visible fixed wiring✅ Hardwired smoke and heat detectors✅ Electric showers and heating controls✅ Boilers and fixed electrical appliances (excluding plug-in devices)

📝 Note: Freestanding appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, or fridges are not included unless they are hardwired.

How Long Does an EICR Last?

• For landlords, an EICR is valid for five years from the date of inspection.

• As a homeowner, it’s recommended to arrange an EICR at least once every decade—or sooner if you notice any electrical issues.

🛠️ Book your next EICR inspection

Common Issues Found in an EICR

During EICR assessments, our electricians frequently identify:

⚠️ Exposed live wiring—gaps around sockets or broken switch plates⚠️ Outdated fuse boards—lacking RCD protection⚠️ Incorrectly rated fuses—posing a fire risk⚠️ Signs of overheating or burning⚠️ Wear and tear damage—such as cracked outlets⚠️ Earthing or bonding faults—causing potential shock risks

EICR Fault Coding Explained:

• C1 – Danger present (Immediate action required)

• C2 – Potential danger (Urgent action advised)

• FI – Further Investigation required

• C3 – Improvement recommended (Not mandatory, but advisable)

How to Prepare for Your EICR Inspection

To make your inspection smoother:

• Unplug sensitive devices (smart home gadgets, computers, etc.)

• Declutter key access points around the consumer unit and plug sockets

• Advise the electrician of any known electrical issues

Our team at Winstanley Electrical aims to keep disruption to a minimum while conducting your EICR.

Why Choose Winstanley Electrical for Your EICR?

✅ NICEIC Approved electricians✅ Fully insured and qualified team✅ Fast and convenient appointments✅ Transparent reports and clear recommendations✅ Serving Liverpool, Wigan, Warrington, Preston, and across the North West

Conclusion

Whether you’re a landlord keeping your property compliant or a homeowner prioritising safety, an Electrical Installation Condition Report is essential. Regular EICR checks help prevent electrical hazards and ensure your property remains safe for occupants.

At Winstanley Electrical, we provide reliable, professional EICR inspections across the North West. Get peace of mind—schedule your inspection with us today.