The importance of an EICR

askinfocuselectric
Jun 17
2 min read

⚡ Easy Guide: Why You Should Get an EICR for Your Property

If you’ve ever wondered whether your home's electrics are safe, you're not alone! One of the best ways to find out is by getting an EICR, which stands for Electrical Installation Condition Report. It might sound technical, but don’t worry — this guide breaks it down in simple terms but for more information click here

✅ What Is an EICR?

An EICR is a safety check for the electrical wiring and systems in your home or property. Think of it like an MOT for your electrics. A qualified electrician inspects your sockets, lights, fuse board, and wiring to check if everything is working safely.

🔧 Why Is It Important?

Here’s why getting an EICR is a smart move:

Safety First – Faulty electrics can cause electric shocks or even fires. An EICR helps spot problems before they become dangerous.
Legal Requirement – If you’re a landlord in the UK, you must get an EICR done at least every 5 years and give a copy to your tenants.
Peace of Mind – Even if you own your home, it’s good to know your electrical system is safe, especially if your home is over 10 years old.
Saves Money – Catching issues early means you can fix small problems before they turn into costly repairs.

🏠 Who Needs an EICR?

Landlords – It’s the law for rental properties.
Homeowners – Especially if you haven’t had one in 10+ years.
Home Buyers – Want to make sure the property is safe before buying? An EICR can help.
Businesses – Commercial properties also need regular electrical checks.

🔍 What Happens During the Inspection?

A registered electrician will:

Check wiring, sockets, lights, and the fuse board.
Look for wear, damage, or anything that doesn’t meet current safety standards.
Give you a report, showing:
- Satisfactory (all good)
- Unsatisfactory (work needs to be done)

If any urgent issues are found, they’ll explain what needs to be fixed.

🗓️ How Often Should You Get an EICR?

Landlords: Every 5 years (by law).
Homeowners: Every 10 years, or sooner if recommended.
Before selling or buying a property: Always a good idea.

💬 Final Thoughts

Getting an EICR might not be the most exciting thing on your to-do list, but it’s one of the smartest. It keeps your home or rental property safe, protects your tenants or family, and helps avoid bigger problems down the line.

Stay safe, save money, and stay on the right side of the law — book your EICR today!

If you would like any information about the EICRs we offer click here