Cost of Landlord Electrical Safety Certificate

Typical EICR Costs for Rental Properties

• Studio / 1–2 bedroom flat: £150–£220 + VAT
• 3-bedroom house: £220–£320 + VAT
• Larger homes or complex installations: £300+ + VAT

Prices vary depending on access, number of consumer unit ways, testing time required, and the overall condition of the installation.

What Affects the Cost of a Landlord EICR?

• Size of the property
• Number of circuits to be tested
• Age and condition of wiring
• Accessibility of sockets, lighting and consumer unit
• Previous DIY alterations or poor workmanship

Older properties often take longer to inspect due to outdated wiring methods or missing bonding.

Is a Landlord Electrical Safety Certificate a Legal Requirement?

Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must ensure that electrical installations are inspected and tested at least every five years by a qualified person. A copy of the report must be provided to tenants and, if requested, to the local authority.

How Long Does an EICR Take?

For a standard 2–3 bedroom rental property, an EICR typically takes 2 to 3 hours. Larger homes, properties with multiple consumer units, or installations with extensive issues may take longer.

Does the Property Need to Be Vacant?

No. An EICR can normally be completed in an occupied rental property. Access will be required to all rooms, the consumer unit and fixed electrical equipment. Power will be turned off briefly during certain tests.

What Happens If the Property Fails?

If issues are identified, observations are coded according to severity. Certain faults may require remedial work before the installation can be deemed satisfactory. For a full explanation of what each code means, see our EICR codes explained guide.

Are Remedial Works Included in the Cost?

No. The EICR fee covers inspection and reporting only. If faults are found, repairs are quoted separately. Once completed, the relevant parts may need re-testing.

How Long Is a Landlord Electrical Safety Certificate Valid?

In most cases, an EICR is valid for five years, unless the report recommends a shorter inspection interval.

Who Can Carry Out a Landlord EICR?

An EICR must be completed by a competent electrician with appropriate inspection and testing qualifications and calibrated test equipment. You can verify contractor registration using the government-approved Electrical Competent Person Register.

Do Landlords Need PAT Testing?

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is separate from the fixed wiring EICR. If you supply electrical appliances with the tenancy, PAT testing may be advisable, but it does not replace the requirement for a periodic EICR.

How to Keep EICR Costs Reasonable

• Ensure full access to all rooms and sockets
• Inform tenants of the visit time
• Provide previous electrical certificates if available
• Book inspections before renewal deadlines

Good preparation reduces wasted time and avoids unnecessary repeat visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a landlord electrical safety certificate cost?

Most domestic rental properties fall between £150 and £300 + VAT depending on size and complexity.

Is VAT included in the price?

Many contractors quote + VAT. Always confirm whether VAT is included in the stated figure.

Can I issue my own certificate?

No. An EICR must be carried out by a competent and qualified electrician.

Is an EICR required every year?

No. In most cases it is required every five years unless the report specifies otherwise.

For landlords based in Leicester who need a compliant inspection, see our Landlord EICR Leicester service page.