When did you last check if your home or rental property’s electrics are safe and legally compliant? In London, where rental and housing standards are under constant scrutiny, knowing the legal requirement for EICR London is essential. Whether you’re a landlord or homeowner, an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) helps ensure electrical compliance in London homes and keeps everyone safe.
This blog will explain who needs an EICR, what the law says, and how to stay compliant.
Need a certified, experienced electrician for your next EICR? Call us today on 02086822244 or email info@maintracts.co.uk to get started.
"Compliance isn’t optional when it comes to electrical safety. With Maintracts, you get clarity, legal confidence, and total peace of mind—backed by trusted experience."
What Is an EICR and Why Is It Important?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a comprehensive inspection of your property’s fixed electrical systems. It identifies defects, deterioration, and potential hazards that could put your home or tenants at risk.
From a legal perspective, EICRs are essential to maintaining housing electrical compliance and preventing costly penalties.
Whether it’s a rental property electrical certificate or a homeowner’s peace of mind, the EICR certification process ensures your wiring, sockets, consumer units, and installations meet current safety standards (BS 7671).
EICR Legal Requirement in London: What the Law Says
The EICR legal requirement in London was officially established by the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020. From July 2020, all landlords in England—including those in London—must ensure that their rented properties undergo an EICR at least every five years.
This regulation enforces:
- A full inspection by certified electricians for EICR
- Compliance with British Standards (BS 7671)
- A valid report is available for tenants and local authorities
Landlords who breach these legal electrical inspection requirements in London risk fines of up to £30,000.
Who Needs an EICR?
1. Landlords
If you let out a property in London, your landlord's EICR responsibilities in London are legally binding. You're required to:
- Conduct an EICR before each new tenancy
- Repeat inspections at least every 5 years
- Provide copies to tenants and local councils within 28 days
The EICR proves your rental property's compliance and helps prevent electrical-related risks and disputes.
2. Homeowners
While not legally mandatory, Homeowner EICR regulations recommend inspections every 10 years, or sooner for older properties or after major works.
It’s also vital when:
- Buying or selling a property
- Renovating or extending
- Experiencing electrical issues
Keeping on top of inspections ensures you're meeting London housing safety compliance standards voluntarily, giving you peace of mind.
What Does an EICR Involve?
Our engineers conduct a full periodic inspection report covering:
- Consumer unit (fuse box)
- Wiring systems
- Earthing and bonding
- Sockets, switches, and light fittings
- Outdoor circuits (garages, gardens)
- Kitchens, bathrooms, and high-load areas
We follow a strict checklist to assess compliance, highlight hazards, and classify issues based on urgency. You can read more about faults and warnings in our article on common electrical faults in EICR in London.
EICR Requirements for Tenants
If you're a tenant in a rented property:
- You are entitled to a copy of the latest EICR
- Your landlord must carry out repairs within 28 days of faults being found
- You can report non-compliance to the local authority
Under EICR requirements for tenants, every rented home must meet current legal safety standards and be free of known electrical hazards.
How Often Should You Have an EICR?
EICR validity period UK guidelines are:
- Landlords: Every 5 years, or at a tenancy change
- Homeowners: Every 10 years (or on major alterations)
- High-risk properties (HMOs, student housing): May need more frequent checks
If your last inspection was over 5 years ago—or you’re unsure—give us a call. We’ll assess whether your property needs an updated report.
What Happens If Your Property Fails the EICR?
If your report returns as "unsatisfactory," you're legally required to carry out remedial work within 28 days. Urgent safety concerns may need addressing even faster.
We’ll guide you through the process—from report to resolution—and make sure your property safety legislation obligations are fully met. Learn more about what to expect in our article on Common Electrical Faults in EICR in London.
Domestic vs Commercial EICRs: What’s the Difference?
Not all EICRs are the same. A domestic inspection focuses on residential systems, whereas commercial inspections involve more complex wiring, machinery, and legal compliance layers.
Visit our guide on Domestic Vs Commercial EICR London to understand better which applies to your property.
Booking a Certified EICR in London
At Maintracts, we make it easy. You can book online or over the phone. We’ll arrange a convenient time, explain what’s involved, and deliver a detailed report.
Want to know how it works? Check out our full guide on certified EICR in London.
Why Choose Maintracts Services Ltd.
We’ve supported London homes and landlords since 1974. When you book your EICR with us, you're choosing:
- Fully qualified and experienced electricians
- Transparent pricing and no hidden costs
- Honest advice and fast turnaround
- Proven experts in electrical compliance for London homes
From landlord certificates to homeowner inspections, we’re your local experts in EICR regulation in London.
Conclusion
Understanding the Legal Requirement for EICR London is more than a tick-box exercise—it’s a step toward safer, smarter property ownership. Whether you're a landlord managing obligations or a homeowner ensuring peace of mind, Maintracts is here to help.
Let’s keep your electrics compliant and your home protected.
Call 02086822244
Email info@maintracts.co.uk
Book your EICR with a team you can trust—Maintracts Services Ltd.
FAQs
1. Do all landlords in London need an EICR?
Yes, by law, landlords must have a valid EICR every five years to meet the EICR rules for landlords in the UK.
2. Is it compulsory for homeowners?
Not legally, but under Homeowner EICR regulations, it’s recommended every 10 years to ensure housing electrical compliance.
3. What if my property fails?
You must complete remedial work within 28 days. Learn more in our guide on common electrical faults in EICR in London.
4. How do I book an EICR with Maintracts?
We’ve made it simple—read our step-by-step process here: Certified EICR in London.
5. What’s the difference between domestic and commercial EICRs?
See our comparison here: Domestic Vs Commercial EICR in London.