Do I Need an EICR to Sell My House

When selling a property in the UK, there are several documents and checks that buyers and solicitors will ask for to ensure everything is in order. One question that often arises is whether an Electrical Installation Condition Report, known as an EICR, is legally required when selling a house. While it is not currently a compulsory document for homeowners in the same way that an Energy Performance Certificate is, it can still play a very important role in the sales process.

What an EICR Is and Why It Matters

An EICR is a professional inspection carried out by a qualified electrician to assess the safety and condition of a property’s electrical installation. It looks at fixed wiring, consumer units, sockets, switches, and lighting circuits to identify faults, deterioration, or non-compliance with current regulations.

The report provides peace of mind that the electrical system is safe and reduces the risk of fire or electric shock. For buyers, knowing that the electrics have been checked recently can be very reassuring. For sellers, it can remove potential obstacles during conveyancing and negotiations.

The Legal Position

In England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, there is no legal requirement for an EICR when selling an owner-occupied home. This means you can sell your property without one, and solicitors are not obliged to request it. However, electrical safety is still a concern for most buyers. If your property is older, or if it has not been rewired in many years, potential buyers may ask for an EICR as part of the process.

For landlords, the law is different. Rental properties in England must have a valid EICR renewed at least every five years, or sooner if recommended by the electrician. While this rule does not apply to owner-occupied sales, the existence of the legislation highlights the importance of electrical safety in all homes.

How an EICR Affects the Sale

Although not legally required, an EICR can make the sales process smoother. Buyers often commission surveys that may flag electrical concerns, and if no recent inspection has been carried out, they may request one before proceeding. In some cases, they might use the absence of an EICR to negotiate a lower price or ask for work to be carried out before exchange.

Having a recent EICR ready demonstrates transparency and shows that you have taken steps to ensure the property is safe. This can speed up the conveyancing process, reduce the risk of last-minute issues, and make your home more attractive compared with similar properties.

When an EICR is Strongly Recommended

If your property is more than 30 years old and has not been rewired in recent decades, an EICR is advisable. Old fuse boxes, lack of modern earthing, and outdated wiring can all raise concerns with buyers. Similarly, if you have carried out electrical work without certification, a report may help demonstrate that the installation is safe.

Even if your home is newer, providing an EICR can offer reassurance. Electrical faults are one of the leading causes of domestic fires in the UK, so a safety check carries real weight during negotiations.

The Process of Getting an EICR Before Selling

If you decide to obtain an EICR, it should be carried out by a qualified and registered electrician who is competent to test and inspect electrical installations. The process usually takes several hours depending on the size and condition of the property. Circuits will be tested, and the installation will be assessed against current wiring regulations.

The electrician will issue a report that either confirms the installation is satisfactory or identifies remedial work required. If issues are found, you can choose to fix them before putting the house on the market, which may make the property more appealing and prevent delays later.

How Buyers View an EICR

From a buyer’s perspective, an EICR is a valuable document. It reduces uncertainty and gives confidence that no hidden electrical problems are waiting to surface after completion. In some cases, a buyer may be willing to pay more for a property that has a recent satisfactory report compared with one where the electrics are unknown.

If no EICR is available, a buyer may request one as a condition of sale or commission their own, potentially slowing the process. In the worst case, serious faults could be revealed after an offer has been accepted, leading to renegotiations or even withdrawal.

Conclusion

You do not legally need an EICR to sell your house in the UK, but having one can make the process far easier. It reassures buyers, helps prevent delays, and can even protect the value of your property. While not compulsory, arranging an EICR before putting your home on the market is often a wise investment, especially if your electrics are old or you want to stand out in a competitive market.