How Often Does an EICR Need Doing? Leeds FAQs
In England, rented homes need an EICR at least every 5 years and at the start of each new tenancy where the existing report has expired. Owner-occupied homes are recommended every 10 years, and commercial premises typically every 5 years or sooner depending on use.
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a formal inspection and test of the fixed wiring in a property, carried out against BS 7671 (the 18th Edition wiring regulations). It looks at the consumer unit, circuits, earthing and bonding, accessories and any signs of damage, wear or unsafe alterations.
For landlords in England, the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector Regulations 2020 require inspection and testing at intervals of no more than 5 years, with a copy of the report given to tenants and to the local authority on request. Leeds City Council can request evidence as part of Selective Licensing checks.
Homeowners are not legally required to have an EICR, but one is strongly recommended every 10 years, before buying a property, after major building work, or if the installation has never been tested.
Every observation on an EICR is coded. C1 means danger present and requires immediate action. C2 means potentially dangerous and requires remedial work for the report to be satisfactory. C3 means improvement recommended and does not fail the report. FI means further investigation is required.
If a report comes back unsatisfactory, the regulations give landlords 28 days (or sooner if the report specifies) to complete the remedial work and obtain written confirmation that it has been done.
BBElectrical Contracting Ltd carries out EICRs and remedial work across Leeds, Wakefield, Huddersfield and Harrogate, with digital certificates and clear remedial quotations.
Frequently asked questions
How often does a landlord EICR need renewing in Leeds?
At least every 5 years, and at the start of a new tenancy if the existing report has expired. Some Leeds licensing conditions may ask for evidence sooner.
How long does an EICR take?
A typical 2-3 bedroom Leeds home takes around 2-4 hours. Larger homes, HMOs and commercial premises take longer because more circuits are tested.
Does an EICR need the power turned off?
Yes, parts of the test require circuits to be isolated. We plan the visit so the supply is only off for short periods.
What happens if my EICR is unsatisfactory?
You receive a written list of coded observations and a quotation for the remedial work. Once the work is complete you get written confirmation and a satisfactory report.
Who can legally carry out an EICR?
A qualified, competent electrician — normally registered with a scheme such as NAPIT — who is trained in inspection and testing to BS 7671.
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