PRS 2025 Electrical Safety Update – Landlord EICR Rules Explained

Key Takeaways

• Landlords must use a competent inspector — ideally NICEIC or NAPIT registered.
• EICRs must follow Best Practice Guide 4 for coding and assessment.
• C1, C2 and FI issues must be rectified within 28 days.
• Older installations can still pass if safe — age alone is not a fail.
• Local authorities may request the EICR within 7 days.

What PRS Requires

The law has not changed: landlords must ensure all rented properties have a current Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). However, enforcement is tightening, and local councils are placing more emphasis on the quality of inspections.

• A valid EICR must be completed at least every 5 years.
• A shorter interval applies if stated on the previous report.
• Reports must be supplied to tenants before they move in.
• Reports must be given to the council within 7 days if requested.

Who Is Allowed to Carry Out PRS EICRs?

The regulations require landlords to use a competent and qualified inspector. The simplest way to demonstrate competence is to use an electrician registered with:

• NICEIC Approved Contractor
• NICEIC Domestic Installer (EICR covered)
• NAPIT Electrical Inspector Scheme

Landlords can verify an electrician on the official Competent Person Register.

Important: Not every electrician is assessed for EICRs. PRS enforcement officers expect landlords to choose someone assessed for inspection & testing work.

How Best Practice Guide 4 Applies

Best Practice Guide 4 (BPG4) sets out how to code observations on an EICR fairly and consistently. It prevents over-coding and protects tenants and landlords from unnecessary work.

For a full breakdown of all four EICR classification codes and how they are applied under BPG4, see our codes explained guide.

Examples from BPG4

• No RCD on sockets → usually C2 (risk of outdoor use).
• Old consumer unit → not automatically a fail.
• Old colours / plastic CU → not a fail unless unsafe.
• Mild wear on accessories → C3, not C2.
• FI is for suspected danger that requires urgent investigation.

At Leicester-Spark Ltd, all reporting follows BPG4 to ensure coding is fair, evidence-based, and compliant.

Common Landlord Myths

Myth: Old wiring always fails.

Fact: Only unsafe wiring fails.

Myth: Every old consumer unit must be replaced.

Fact: Condition matters, not age.

Myth: FI gives you an extension.

Fact: FI means possible danger and needs immediate attention.

Myth: EICR = rewire.

Fact: Most issues are solved with simple remedials.

What Happens if an EICR Fails?

If an EICR shows C1, C2 or FI, landlords must:

• Resolve issues within 28 days (or sooner if the report states).
• Obtain written confirmation that the work is fixed.
• Give proof to the tenant and the council when requested.

How Much Does a Landlord EICR Cost?

• Studio / 1 Bed: £180
• 2–3 Bed Homes: £180
• 4+ Bed or HMO: from £219

For full pricing, see: Landlord EICR Leicester or our landlord electrical safety certificate cost guide.

Reports, certificates and related documentation are released after payment has been received. Landlords and agents should ensure prompt payment so they can meet any legal timescales for providing the EICR to tenants, prospective tenants or the local authority.

Why Choose Leicester-Spark Ltd?

• NICEIC Approved Contractor & Domestic Installer
• Accurate, fair and honest reporting
• Fast remedial options if required
• Clear communication with tenants
• Full PRS compliance

Book a PRS-Compliant Landlord EICR

Get a fixed-price, no-nonsense inspection from a qualified NICEIC contractor.

For domestic (non-rental) inspections, see: Main EICR Leicester Page