EICR Explained: Cost, Validity & Landlord Rules for Nottingham Property Owners
If you've been told you need an EICR and aren't sure what that actually means, you're not alone — "what is an EICR" is searched over a thousand times a month across the UK. This guide answers the questions people ask most: what it is, how long it lasts, what it costs, and who's legally required to have one.
What Is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a formal inspection of a property's fixed electrical installation — wiring, consumer unit, sockets, earthing and bonding — carried out by a qualified electrician against the UK wiring standard, BS 7671. It confirms whether your electrics are safe to continue using and flags anything that needs attention.
How Long Does an EICR Last?
- Rental properties: valid for 5 years, or sooner if the report specifies
- Owner-occupied homes: recommended every 10 years
- Change of tenancy: a new EICR is generally required before a new tenant moves in
- Commercial properties: typically every 5 years, or as recommended by the inspector
How Much Does an EICR Cost?
Cost depends on the property's size and the number of circuits. As a guide, prices start from £99 for a studio or one-bed flat, rising for larger homes and HMOs based on circuits and complexity. See our full EICR Nottingham page for pricing by property type.
Is an EICR a Legal Requirement?
Yes, for landlords. Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must have a valid EICR before letting a property and renew it at least every 5 years. Nottingham also operates a large selective licensing scheme, meaning an EICR may also be a condition of your property licence. It's not a legal requirement for homeowners, but it's strongly recommended.
Who Is Responsible for an EICR on a Commercial Property?
Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, the duty holder — usually the business owner, employer, or landlord of commercial premises — is responsible for ensuring the electrical installation is regularly inspected and kept safe.
Do You Need an EICR to Sell a House?
It's not a legal requirement to sell, but many mortgage lenders and buyers now request a recent EICR as part of the sale process, particularly for older properties.
What Happens If My EICR Comes Back Unsatisfactory?
Any C1 or C2 observation results in an unsatisfactory report. C1 issues require immediate action; C2 issues need remedial work, typically within 28 days for landlords. We provide a clear, fixed-price quote for any identified remedial work.
Book an EICR in Nottingham
Our NICEIC-approved engineers carry out EICR inspections across Nottingham and the East Midlands, with fixed pricing and fast turnaround. See our full EICR Nottingham page →
