How Much Does an EICR Cost

An Electrical Installation Condition Report, often shortened to EICR, is one of the most important safety checks a property can have. It is a professional inspection carried out by a qualified electrician to assess the condition of a fixed electrical installation. Many homeowners, landlords, and business owners know they need one, but a common question is how much an EICR costs. The answer depends on several factors including the type of property, its size, and the complexity of the electrical system. Understanding what influences the cost helps to plan ahead and ensures that the inspection is not only affordable but also carried out to the correct standards.

What an EICR Covers

An EICR involves a detailed inspection and testing of the electrical system within a property. This includes consumer units, circuits, sockets, switches, wiring, and any protective devices. The electrician checks for deterioration, wear, non-compliance with regulations, and potential safety risks such as overloading or poor-quality past work. At the end of the inspection, a report is issued which states whether the installation is satisfactory or whether remedial work is required. Because this work is detailed and often takes several hours, the cost reflects the time and level of expertise needed.

Typical Costs for Different Properties

For a small flat with one or two bedrooms, an EICR may cost in the region of £100 to £200. A larger house with more circuits and a bigger consumer unit could range from £200 to £350. For commercial properties, costs are often higher because of more complex systems and additional circuits, with inspections starting around £250 and often reaching £500 or more depending on the size of the building. Large industrial spaces, multi-occupancy offices, or sites with specialist electrical equipment can exceed £1,000. These figures are not fixed prices but give a guide to what property owners can expect.

Factors That Influence Cost

Several factors determine how much an EICR will cost. The size of the property is the most obvious, as more rooms usually mean more circuits to check. The age of the installation also has an impact. Older wiring or outdated consumer units can take longer to test, which increases the cost. The location of the property can affect prices as well, with electricians in large cities often charging more than those in smaller towns. Accessibility also matters. If the electrician has to work around difficult layouts, hidden wiring, or poorly labelled circuits, the inspection will take longer and cost more.

Frequency and Ongoing Costs

An EICR is not a one-off expense. For domestic properties, the recommended frequency is every ten years or when ownership changes. For rented homes, landlords are legally required to provide an EICR at least every five years. Commercial properties usually require inspections every five years, but certain environments such as gyms, swimming pools, or industrial sites may need more frequent checks. Factoring in these intervals helps owners budget for electrical safety over time. While the cost may seem significant, it should be seen as part of the ongoing maintenance of a property, much like boiler servicing or gas checks.

Why Cheaper Is Not Always Better

When comparing prices for an EICR, it is important to look beyond the lowest quote. Some very low-cost inspections may be rushed or incomplete, leaving important issues undetected. Others may use unqualified contractors who are not registered with a recognised body. This can result in a report that does not meet legal or insurance requirements. Paying a little more for a thorough inspection by a qualified electrician ensures the report is reliable and valid. It also provides peace of mind that the property is safe and compliant with regulations.

Remedial Work and Additional Costs

It is worth remembering that the cost of the EICR itself only covers the inspection and report. If the electrician finds issues that need correcting, additional costs will apply for remedial work. These can range from minor repairs such as replacing a damaged socket to larger jobs like upgrading a consumer unit or rewiring parts of the property. The report will list these issues with codes that show their urgency. While this may increase the total cost, carrying out the recommended work is essential for safety and compliance.

Why an EICR Is Worth the Investment

Although the cost of an EICR can vary, it should be seen as an investment in safety rather than just another bill. The inspection reduces the risk of fire, electric shock, and damage to expensive equipment. For landlords, it ensures compliance with legal duties and prevents potential fines or invalidated insurance policies. For business owners, it protects staff and customers while helping meet health and safety obligations. For homeowners, it provides reassurance that the electrical system is safe and ready for future use. Considering these benefits, the cost of an EICR represents good value.

Conclusion

The cost of an EICR depends on the size, type, and complexity of the property, but most domestic inspections fall between £100 and £350, while commercial and industrial inspections are usually higher. Factors such as age, accessibility, and location all affect the final price. While remedial work may add to the cost, an up-to-date EICR provides essential protection for property owners, tenants, and businesses. Choosing a qualified electrician to carry out the inspection ensures the report is both accurate and legally recognised.