When did EICR become mandatory?

EICRs became mandatory for private rented homes in England in stages. The rules came into effect on 1 June 2020, making EICRs compulsory for new tenancies from 1 July 2020 and for all existing tenancies from 1 April 2021.

Why EICR Rules Were Introduced

‘Electrical Installation Condition Reports‘ were consistently recommended for many years. Yet a significant number of homes still had hidden faults which caused fires, shocks or power issues.

New laws were introduced to improve safety and ensure that rented homes had wiring which met modern standards. The rules also gave landlords a clear duty to keep electrical systems safe, which created a consistent approach across the private rented sector.

Before these rules, many landlords carried out checks, but some did not. The new system ensures every rented home is inspected by a certified Electrician, reducing risk for tenants and helping landlords understand the condition of their eelctrical system.

The Timeline In More Detail

June 2020: The Regulations Come In

The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector Regulations were introduced in June 2020.

These rules apply to private rented homes across England, covering short lets, long lets and HMOs.

From this point, landlords had a clear legal duty to comply with fixed safety standards and arrange inspections by competent Electricians.

July 2020: New Tenancies Covered

From 1 July 2020, every new tenancy needed a valid EICR before tenants moved in.

A “new” tenancy included:

• Brand new tenancy agreements
• Renewals or changes to existing agreements
• Moves from fixed-term to periodic arrangements

This ensured new tenants moved into homes which had been checked and confirmed safe.

April 2021: All Existing Tenancies Covered

From 1 April 2021, the rules applied to all private rented homes, even when tenants had lived in the property for many years.

This created a fair system that ensured every rented home was at the same safety level, regardless of when the tenancy began.

Why EICRs Are Vital For Safety

An EICR provides a clear picture of the condition of the fixed wiring, sockets, switches, and the consumer unit.

An Electrician looks for issues that can cause heat, fire or shock. The report then shows if work is needed and which issues should be fixed first.

Common problems found during an EICR include:

• Damaged wiring
• Outdated Consumer Units
• Loose connections
• Incorrect bonding
• Overloaded circuits

Many faults are hidden behind walls or in consumer units, making them difficult to identify without a full test.

How Often Is an EICR Needed

Most rented homes need an EICR every five years as standard. Some properties require more frequent checks, such as HMOs or properties with heavy electrical use.

A new EICR is needed when major electrical work has been carried out. The inspection confirms the installation is safe and ready for use again.

Landlords should keep copies of each report, which helps with future checks and shows a clear inspection history.

What Landlords Must Provide Under The Law

Giving Tenants The Report

Landlords or the letting agent must give tenants a copy of the EICR within 28 days of the inspection. New tenants should receive the report before they move into the property.

Fixing Any Issues

If faults are found, repairs must be completed within 28 days unless the report states a shorter period. Once the work is done, the Electrician provides follow-up paperwork confirming that the repairs have been signed off.

Giving The Report To The Council

Councils may ask for a copy of the EICR. When asked, landlords must send the report within seven days.

Why Electrical Inspections Help Homeowners Too

Although the rules apply to rented homes, EICRs also benefit homeowners.

A periodic EICR gives peace of mind, helps prevent electrical issues, and keeps the property safe and is useful when selling a home or letting out a room.

Electrical issues often develop over time, so an EICR is recommended for homeowners every 5-10 years. Or sooner if electrical issues occur.

Need Advice Or Help With Electrical Safety?

If you’re in Essex and need an EICR or your property needs work following a report, our Electricians can help.

TM Hughes & Son Electrical Services is NICEIC-registered and fully insured. We inspect rented and private homes across Essex.

We offer fixed prices for EICRs and free no-obligation surveys and quotes for all electrical work.