How Long Does an EICR Last

Electrical safety is one of the most important responsibilities for anyone who owns, manages, or rents out property. Over time, wiring and electrical systems naturally deteriorate and what was once considered safe may no longer meet modern standards. This is where an Electrical Installation Condition Report, known as an EICR, becomes essential. An EICR provides a professional assessment of the state of a property’s electrical installation and confirms whether it is safe for continued use. One of the most common questions people have is how long an EICR lasts and when a new one is required.

What an EICR Covers

An EICR is a detailed inspection carried out by a qualified electrician. It examines the fixed wiring, sockets, switches, consumer unit, protective devices, and earthing arrangements. The inspection includes both a visual check and electrical testing to identify potential faults or risks. The electrician records their findings in a formal report which is then used to judge whether the installation is satisfactory or requires remedial work. If any issues are found, they are coded according to severity, with urgent hazards needing immediate action.

Standard Validity Periods

In most cases, an EICR lasts for a fixed number of years depending on the type of property and its use. For domestic rental properties in England and Wales, the law requires landlords to arrange an EICR at least every five years or sooner if specified by the electrician. For homeowners, the recommended interval is every ten years, although many choose to arrange one earlier if their home is older or has been altered. Commercial properties generally require more frequent checks due to higher usage, often every three to five years. Special environments such as swimming pools or industrial sites may need inspections as often as every year.

Situations Where an EICR May Expire Sooner

Although an EICR certificate has a typical lifespan, it can effectively expire sooner if circumstances change. If you carry out major electrical work such as a rewire, new consumer unit, or large extension, you may need a fresh inspection to ensure compliance. If the electrician identifies issues that require urgent repair, the report will be marked unsatisfactory until the problems are fixed and verified. Similarly, if a property changes hands, insurers or mortgage lenders may ask for a new report even if the existing one is still technically valid.

Legal Duties for Landlords

For landlords, the rules are clear. The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector Regulations 2020 state that all rental properties in England must have an EICR carried out at least once every five years. Landlords must provide tenants with a copy of the report before they move in and supply a copy to the local authority if requested. If the report is unsatisfactory, remedial work must be completed within 28 days, or sooner if specified. Failure to comply can result in enforcement action and fines. In Scotland, landlords are also required to arrange regular EICRs, while Wales and Northern Ireland have separate but similar guidance.

Why Homeowners Should Not Ignore EICRs

Homeowners are not legally required to obtain an EICR, but it is still strongly recommended. Electrical faults are one of the leading causes of house fires in the UK and many of these incidents could have been prevented through timely inspection. Even if you have owned your home for many years without issue, unseen problems such as deteriorating insulation or loose connections can develop over time. An EICR provides peace of mind that your installation is safe and can also help when selling a property, as many buyers now expect evidence of electrical safety before proceeding.

EICRs for Businesses and Commercial Properties

Business owners also have clear responsibilities under health and safety law to ensure electrical installations are maintained in a safe condition. This often means carrying out EICRs more frequently than in domestic settings. Offices, shops, and other workplaces typically require inspections every five years, although some high-use environments may need them sooner. Employers must be able to demonstrate that they have taken reasonable steps to protect staff and visitors from electrical risks, and an up-to-date EICR is a key part of this duty.

Recognising When to Arrange a New EICR

Even if your certificate is still within its official timeframe, there are situations where arranging a new one is sensible. If you notice frequent tripping of circuits, burning smells from sockets, flickering lights, or any other signs of electrical problems, an inspection should be arranged without delay. Properties with outdated fuse boxes, rubber or fabric wiring, or visible signs of wear are also strong candidates for earlier testing. A qualified electrician can advise whether your installation is safe to continue using or whether an updated report is needed.

Conclusion

So how long does an EICR last? The answer depends on the type of property and its use. For landlords, the legal requirement is every five years, while homeowners are advised to arrange an inspection at least every ten years. Businesses often need more frequent checks depending on their environment. However, these timeframes are maximum limits rather than guarantees. If electrical problems appear, if major alterations are made, or if ownership changes, a new EICR may be needed much sooner. Regular inspections not only ensure compliance but also provide reassurance that your home, tenants, or business premises are safe.