What's an EICR?
An EICR is a documented inspection and test of a property's fixed electrical installation — consumer unit, circuits, sockets, switches, bonding, earthing. The inspector issues a report classifying any defects with codes C1, C2, C3 or FI.
Who needs one?
- Private landlords in England — every 5 years (or sooner if the report says so). Required since 1 June 2020 for new tenancies, 1 April 2021 for existing.
- Scotland & Wales — also every 5 years for private rentals.
- Commercial premises — every 5 years as part of insurance / health-and-safety compliance.
- Homeowners — recommended every 10 years, or at change of occupancy.
What do the codes mean?
- C1 — Danger present. Risk of injury, immediate action required. Report fails.
- C2 — Potentially dangerous. Urgent remedial work needed. Report fails.
- C3 — Improvement recommended. Doesn't fail the report; nice-to-have.
- FI — Further investigation. Inspector couldn't determine the condition without invasive testing.
A report is satisfactory only if it contains zero C1, C2 or FI codes. C3s are fine.
What does an EICR cost in 2026?
- 1-bed flat — £100–£150
- 2–3 bed house — £150–£250
- 4+ bed / HMO — £250–£400+
- Commercial / industrial — quoted per circuit
Remedial work to clear C1/C2 codes is separate and often the bigger spend.
For electricians: turning EICRs into recurring revenue
EICRs are 5-yearly. If you issue 100 reports a year, by year five you have 500 properties due for renewal — but only if you remembered to chase them. Job Snapper automates the 5-year re-test reminder per property. See Job Snapper for electricians.