In January 2020, the government announced the introduction of mandatory electrical safety inspections for private landlords.

The new regulations were officially brought in on 1st April 2020.

In July 2020, all new tenancies required an EICR). As of 1st April 2021, this requirement applies to all tenancies – new and existing.

What does an electrical inspection and test involve?

Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs), otherwise known as Landlord’s Report or periodic inspections’ should be carried out by a fully qualified and registered engineer. The purpose of the inspection is to:

• Find any potential fire hazards or electric shock risks
• Identify any defective electrical work
• Detect any lack of earthing or bonding
• Pinpoint any overloading of electrical circuits or equipment

Landlords must make sure that their inspection is carried out by a legitimate electrical engineer as local authorities and lettings agents will only accept certificates issued by a qualified person.

The engineer will issue an EICR detailing any damage, defects or dangerous conditions found. If the property is deemed unsafe, the electrical installation will be declared as “unsatisfactory” and remedial action will be required.