What Is an EICR and When Does It Expire?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a formal inspection of the fixed electrical installation in your property — the wiring, consumer unit (fuse box), sockets, and light fittings.
EICRs are valid for a maximum of 5 years for rental properties. In practice, the report may recommend a shorter interval (e.g., 3 years for an older installation). The shorter interval takes precedence.
Since 1 April 2021 (for new tenancies) and 1 April 2022 (for all tenancies), EICRs are mandatory for all private rented properties in England.
What Happens If Your EICR Expires?
An expired EICR is a serious legal breach. Here are the consequences:
1. Fine of up to £30,000
Local housing authorities can impose a civil penalty of up to £30,000 per property where a landlord fails to have a valid EICR. There is no upper limit to the total fines if you own multiple properties.
2. Section 21 Notice Becomes Invalid
You cannot serve a valid Section 21 notice — or rely on one already served — if your EICR is expired. This means you cannot regain possession of your property through the no-fault route. (Note: Section 21 is abolished from 1 May 2026 anyway, but this rule applies until then.)
3. Potential Criminal Liability
If a tenant is injured or killed as a result of an electrical fault that a valid EICR inspection would have identified, you face potential criminal prosecution for gross negligence.
4. Insurance May Be Void
Many landlord insurance policies require compliance with all statutory obligations. An expired EICR could void your building or liability insurance.
I've Just Discovered My EICR Has Expired — What Do I Do?
Act immediately. Here is the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Book an EICR inspection
Contact a registered electrician immediately. Prioritise this over everything else. Most qualified electricians can complete an EICR within 2–4 hours for a standard property.
Step 2: Address any C1 or C2 findings
If the report identifies Category 1 (danger present) or Category 2 (potential danger) issues, you have 28 days to carry out remedial work. Get quotes from two or three electricians and proceed as quickly as possible.
Step 3: Provide a copy to your tenants
Within 28 days of the new report, provide a copy to all existing tenants. If a new tenant moves in, they must receive it before the tenancy starts.
Step 4: Document everything
Keep records of the inspection, the report, any remedial work carried out, and the date you provided the report to tenants. This documentation protects you if there is ever a dispute.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an EICR?
EICR costs in 2026 typically range from £100 to £300 for a standard property, depending on size and location. London properties typically cost more (£150–£400).
If remedial work is required, costs vary widely. Simple C2 fixes (e.g., a broken socket or missing earth bond) might cost £50–£100. More serious issues (rewiring a circuit or replacing the consumer unit) can cost £500–£2,000+.
Always get at least two quotes. Prices vary significantly and some contractors quote high for remedial work.
How to Avoid This Happening Again
The best way to avoid an expired EICR is to track the expiry date and set reminders well in advance.
LetCompliance automatically tracks your EICR expiry date and sends you reminders at 90, 30, 14, 7 and 1 day before it expires — so you never forget to book an inspection.
Start tracking your EICR and all other compliance items automatically →