Compliance

EICR for landlords: what are the rules, costs and C1/C2 codes?

By Oscar Mustill, Founder of LeaseLink · Last updated 21 October 2026

Quick answer

Landlords in England must have the fixed electrical installation inspected and tested at least every 5 years by a qualified electrician, who issues an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). Tenants get a copy within 28 days. Any C1, C2 or FI items must be fixed or investigated within 28 days. Councils can fine landlords up to £30,000.

At a glance: EICR rules for landlords

Requirement	Deadline or rule
Inspection	At least every 5 years, or sooner if the report says so
Who can do it	A qualified and competent electrician
Copy to existing tenants	Within 28 days of the inspection
Copy to new tenants	Before they move in
Copy to the council	Within 7 days of a written request
Urgent or remedial work	Within 28 days, or sooner if the report specifies
Confirm repairs done	In writing to tenants and the council within 28 days of finishing the work
Maximum fine	Up to £30,000

What do the EICR codes mean?

Code	Meaning	Must the landlord act?
C1	Danger present. Risk of injury now.	Yes, immediately. The electrician will usually make it safe on the spot.
C2	Potentially dangerous.	Yes, within 28 days or sooner.
FI	Further investigation needed.	Yes, investigate within 28 days.
C3	Improvement recommended.	No legal duty, but worth planning.

A report with any C1, C2 or FI item is marked “unsatisfactory” until the work is done.

How much does an EICR cost?

Most landlords pay roughly £125 to £300, depending on the number of bedrooms and circuits. Larger houses and HMOs cost more. Any repairs are extra, so ask for a fixed quote for C1 and C2 work before agreeing to it.

How do I stay compliant? (step by step)

Check when the last EICR was done. Note the “next inspection” date on the report, which may be under 5 years.
Book a qualified electrician, ideally one registered with a recognised scheme such as NICEIC or NAPIT.
Give tenants at least 24 hours' notice of access.
Read the report. Look for C1, C2 and FI codes and the overall result.
Book remedial work within 28 days (or sooner if stated).
Get written confirmation from the electrician that the work is complete.
Send the report and the confirmation to tenants, and to the council if asked.
Set a reminder for the next inspection date.

What happens if a landlord doesn't get an EICR?

The council can serve a remedial notice, arrange the work itself and recover the cost, and fine the landlord up to £30,000. Missing electrical safety records can also count against you in a possession claim.

If you're a tenant

You should receive a copy of the EICR within 28 days of the inspection, or before you move in. If you see scorch marks, hear buzzing or smell burning from sockets, stop using them and tell your landlord in writing straight away. If nothing happens, contact your council's private housing team.

How LeaseLink helps

Compliance tracking stores each EICR with its next inspection date and reminds you before it's due.
TradeLink helps you find and book local electricians.
Maintenance requests turn C1, C2 and FI items into tracked jobs with dates, photos and quotes.
Tenant documents let tenants see the report in the app.

Try LeaseLink free

Frequently asked questions

How often do landlords need an EICR?

At least every 5 years, or sooner if the previous report says so.

What does C2 mean on an EICR?

Potentially dangerous. It must be fixed within 28 days or sooner.

Do landlords have to fix C3 items?

No. C3 is a recommendation, not a legal requirement.

Is a PAT test required for landlords?

Not by these regulations, but it's good practice for appliances you provide.

Can I get a new EICR at the start of each tenancy?

You don't have to, as long as the current report is valid. Give each new tenant a copy before they move in.

What's the fine for not having an EICR?

Up to £30,000.

Sources

This article is general information, not legal advice. Check the latest rules on GOV.UK.