If you’re a homeowner, landlord, or property manager in London, understanding when you need an Electrical Safety Certificate (EICR) is essential. Not only is it often a legal requirement, but it also ensures your property is safe for those living or working in it.
At Cole Electric, we provide professional Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) for homes, rental properties, and commercial spaces throughout SE11 and Greater London.
In this guide, we’ll break down who needs one, how often, and why it matters.
⚡ What Is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a formal inspection of the electrical systems and wiring in your property. It checks whether your electrics are safe, up to standard, and compliant with current regulations.
You’ll receive a certificate showing whether your installation is:
- Satisfactory (safe), or
- Unsatisfactory (with faults that must be addressed)
🏠 Do Homeowners Need an EICR?
While EICRs are not legally required for private homeowners, they are strongly recommended every 10 years, or when:
- You’re buying or selling a home
- You’re planning major renovation work
- You’ve experienced electrical issues or power failures
Having a recent certificate can also help with insurance and peace of mind.
🏢 Legal Requirements for Landlords
Since July 1, 2020, it’s mandatory for all landlords in England to have a valid EICR:
- At the start of any new tenancy
- And every 5 years thereafter
You must provide a copy of the certificate to:
- New tenants before they move in
- Existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection
- Your local authority within 7 days if requested
Failing to comply can result in fines of up to £30,000.
🧰 What’s Involved in the Inspection?
Our qualified electricians will:
- Test sockets, switches, lighting, and fuse boards
- Check for signs of overheating, overloading, or damage
- Identify outdated or dangerous wiring
- Provide a detailed report with any required actions
All work is carried out to current BS 7671 wiring regulations.
📍 Certified Electricians in London You Can Trust
Cole Electric is a fully qualified electrical contractor with over 15 years’ experience serving SE11 and the surrounding areas, including Kennington, Vauxhall, Clapham, Camberwell, Brixton, and beyond.
We offer fast, professional EICR inspections for:
- Private homes
- Rented properties (HMOs and single-lets)
- Commercial buildings and offices
📝 Book Your Electrical Safety Inspection
Don’t wait until something goes wrong. Whether you’re a landlord or a homeowner, an up-to-date EICR keeps your property safe, legal, and fully protected.
📞 Contact Cole Electric today for a free quote and a swift, professional response.