As a landlord, ensuring the safety of your tenants should be a top priority. One important aspect of this is obtaining an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) for your rental property. An EICR is a report that details the condition of the electrical installation in a property. This report assesses the safety and suitability of the electrical installation and identifies any defects, damage or non-compliance with current regulations. 

In this guide, we will walk you through the steps involved in obtaining an EICR so that you can ensure that the electrical installation is safe for tenants to use, as well as to comply with legal requirements.

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Understanding the Regulations

It is a legal requirement for landlords to obtain an EICR for their rental property. The inspection and testing process must be carried out by a qualified electrician who will assess the condition of the electrical installation and produce a report with any issues identified. Landlords must provide a copy of the EICR to their tenants before they move into the property. The regulations specify that an EICR must be carried out at least every five years, or more frequently if recommended by the electrician.

Finding a Qualified Electrician

It is crucial to use a qualified electrician who is registered with a competent person scheme to carry out the EICR, such as the NICEIC. This ensures that the electrician is up-to-date with current regulations and has the necessary skills and knowledge to carry out the inspection and testing process. To find a qualified electrician, you can ask for recommendations from other landlords or search for electricians who are registered with a scheme online. When hiring an electrician, be sure to ask for references, proof of insurance, and any relevant qualifications.

Preparing for the Inspection

Before the inspection, it is important to prepare your property as the electrician will need access to all areas of the property, including any outbuildings, so make sure that keys are available if necessary. If there are any potential issues that you are aware of, such as exposed wiring or outdated sockets, make sure to bring them to the attention of the electrician before the inspection. 

Receiving the Report

After the inspection, the electrician will provide you with a report detailing the condition of the electrical installation. The report will include a list of any defects, damage or non-compliance with current regulations, and assign a code to each issue identified. It is important to read the report thoroughly to understand any issues identified and their severity.

Taking Action on the Report

If any issues are identified in the report or it comes back as unsatisfactory, it is important to take action as any remedials must be completed within 28 days in order to remain compliant. The electrician will advise on the types of action required, which may range from minor repairs to a complete rewiring of the property. Prioritise and schedule any necessary repairs, and ensure that they are carried out by a qualified electrician. Once the repairs have been completed, you will need to arrange for the property to be re-tested and re-inspected to ensure that it is safe for tenants to use.

Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining an EICR is an important part of ensuring the safety of your rental property and complying with legal requirements. By following this step-by-step guide, you can obtain an EICR for your property and take action to ensure the safety of your tenants. Remember to use a qualified electrician, prepare the property ahead of the inspection, and take any action where needed in order to obtain a satisfactory report in time for the move in. 

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