Do I Need a New EICR for a New Tenant

Letting out a property in the UK comes with legal duties and responsibilities, particularly when it comes to electrical safety. Landlords must ensure that every property they rent is safe for tenants to live in, and this includes having the electrical installation inspected at regular intervals. One of the most common questions landlords ask is whether they need to obtain a brand new Electrical Installation Condition Report, known as an EICR, each time a new tenant moves into the property.

Understanding What an EICR Is

An EICR is a detailed inspection carried out by a qualified electrician to check the safety and condition of the fixed electrical installation. This includes consumer units, wiring, sockets, switches, and lighting circuits. The inspection identifies any deterioration, defects, or non-compliance with current wiring regulations. The report is then issued with findings, ranging from confirmation that the installation is satisfactory to recommendations for urgent or planned remedial work.

The purpose of the EICR is to reduce the risk of electrical fires, shocks, or accidents. It provides landlords with evidence that they have taken steps to ensure their property is safe, which is a legal requirement under housing and electrical safety regulations.

The Legal Requirement for Landlords

Since July 2020 in England, landlords must have a valid EICR carried out at least every five years. This law applies to all new tenancies and, since April 2021, to all existing tenancies as well. The legislation requires landlords to provide a copy of the most recent EICR to new tenants before they move in, and to supply one to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection.

This means that if your current EICR is still valid and less than five years old, you do not need to commission a completely new one when a new tenant moves in. Instead, you must provide them with a copy of the existing valid report. However, if the inspection date has expired or is close to expiry, you must arrange a new EICR before the tenancy begins.

When a New EICR May Be Required

There are situations where a landlord might still need or want to commission a new EICR for a new tenant, even if the existing report has not yet expired. If electrical work has been carried out in the property since the last inspection, such as a consumer unit upgrade, rewiring, or installation of new circuits, a new EICR or at least a minor works certificate may be advisable to demonstrate compliance.

If the property has been vacant for a long period, or if you have reason to believe that the electrical installation may have deteriorated, a fresh inspection can provide reassurance. Likewise, if the previous EICR highlighted areas for improvement that have not yet been addressed, carrying out a new one after remedial work can confirm that the installation is now fully compliant.

Responsibilities During Tenant Changeover

During tenant changeovers, landlords must provide documentation that confirms the property is safe and habitable. This includes gas safety certificates where applicable, an Energy Performance Certificate, and in the case of electrical safety, a valid EICR. Tenants may also request to see electrical installation certificates or minor works certificates if specific work has been carried out.

Failing to provide a valid EICR before a tenancy begins is a breach of legal obligations. Local authorities have the power to issue financial penalties of up to £30,000 for non-compliance, and in serious cases may restrict a landlord’s ability to let properties. Beyond the legal risk, not providing an EICR could damage relationships with tenants and lead to disputes.

Best Practice for Landlords

While the law sets out a five-year maximum interval, best practice is to consider shorter inspection cycles depending on the property type and tenant profile. For example, houses in multiple occupation are often inspected more frequently due to higher usage and greater wear and tear on the electrical system.

Even where a new EICR is not strictly required for a new tenant, providing a recent and satisfactory report can build trust and demonstrate professionalism. Many landlords choose to update the EICR more often than required as a way of preventing problems and ensuring tenant safety.

Conclusion

To answer the question directly, you do not need to carry out a brand new EICR every time a new tenant moves in, as long as the existing report is valid and within the five-year limit. However, you must provide the tenant with a copy before they occupy the property. In some circumstances, such as after electrical work or when the system is ageing, it may be sensible to commission a new inspection for reassurance. Ultimately, keeping your electrical installations safe is not only a legal responsibility but also key to protecting your property, your tenants, and your reputation as a landlord.