Can my landlord be penalised for not having an EICR?

Yes. Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, local authorities can impose civil penalties and may arrange remedial work and recover the cost.

What should I do if my landlord refuses to provide an EICR?

First, make your request in writing (email is fine) so you have a record. If the landlord does not respond within a reasonable time, report the matter to your local council's private rented sector housing team. They have enforcement powers.

Does my landlord have to fix problems found on the EICR?

Yes. If the EICR identifies C1 or C2 defects, the landlord must complete remedial work within 28 days (or sooner for C1 defects). They must then provide evidence of the completed work to the local authority if requested.

Am I covered if something goes wrong and there is no EICR?

If an electrical fault causes injury or damage in a rental property that does not have a valid EICR, the landlord may face prosecution, civil liability, and insurance complications. Tenants should document any electrical concerns in writing.

Caution

Updated 30 August 2026

Landlord Won't Provide EICR

Your landlord has not provided an Electrical Installation Condition Report for the rental property.

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What's happening?

Since 1 June 2020, landlords in England have been required to have electrical installations in their rental properties inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years. The report must be provided to new tenants before they move in and to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection. Local authorities can impose civil penalties for non-compliance.

What usually causes it?

Landlord is unaware of the 2020 Electrical Safety Standards regulations
Landlord is avoiding the cost of an EICR and potential remedial work
Property managed by an agent who has not ensured compliance
Landlord believes the property is exempt (very few exemptions exist)
Landlord had an EICR done but has not shared it with the tenant

Is it dangerous?

Without an EICR, there is no verified record of the electrical installation's safety. The property may have serious defects that put tenants at risk of electric shock or fire. The legal requirement exists specifically because electrical faults are a leading cause of domestic fires in rental properties.

Can I fix it myself?

As a tenant, you cannot carry out electrical testing yourself and should not attempt DIY electrical work in a rental property. Your first step should be to request the EICR in writing from your landlord. If they do not comply, you can report them to your local council's housing enforcement team.

When should you call an electrician?

As a tenant, you should not need to arrange an EICR — this is your landlord's legal responsibility. However, if you have specific safety concerns (burning smells, sparking sockets, frequent tripping), you should report these to your landlord in writing and request urgent repair. If the landlord fails to act and you believe there is immediate danger, contact your local council.

What will the electrician actually do?

Carry out a full Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) of the property
Test every circuit and protective device in the installation
Code all defects found (C1, C2, C3, or FI)
Provide the landlord with the EICR report for distribution to tenants
Recommend and carry out remedial work for any C1 or C2 defects (which the landlord must complete within 28 days)
Re-test and confirm satisfactory after remedial work is completed