If you have heard the term EICR but you are not quite sure what it means, you are not alone – it is a question we hear often from homeowners and landlords across Exeter and Devon. It is one of the most important electrical safety documents in the UK, yet many people are unsure what it actually covers, especially owners of Exeter’s older terraced and rental properties. In this guide, we explain the meaning of EICR, why it matters, who needs one, and what happens during the inspection.
What Does EICR Mean?
EICR stands for Electrical Installation Condition Report.
It is a formal document issued by a qualified electrician after they inspect and test the fixed electrical installation in a property. That means they assess the condition of things like:
- Consumer unit (fuse board)
- Wiring and circuits
- Sockets and switches
- Hard-wired lighting
- Earthing and bonding
- Fixed appliances such as showers or cookers
The purpose of an EICR is to confirm whether your electrical installation is safe to use or whether any faults, defects, or risks need attention.
Why Is an EICR Important?
Electricity is essential in every home or business, but if wiring or electrical components deteriorate, they can become a serious hazard. An EICR helps identify risks such as:
- Faulty or damaged wiring
- Overloaded circuits
- Loose or poor quality connections
- Lack of earthing
- Shock risks
- Fire hazards
Without a regular inspection, these issues may go unnoticed until a breakdown or serious accident happens.
An EICR gives you clear written confirmation of the condition of your electrics and what, if anything, needs to be repaired.
Is an EICR a Legal Requirement?
Whether an EICR is legally required depends on the type of property you own.
Homeowners
For owner-occupied homes, an EICR is not currently a legal requirement. However, it is strongly recommended every 10 years, or sooner if the property is older or has had electrical problems.
Landlords
For rented properties, an EICR is a legal requirement in England. Landlords must:
- Have an EICR carried out at least every 5 years
- Provide a copy to tenants
- Fix any issues marked as unsafe or potentially dangerous
This requirement is set out in The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector Regulations 2020.
Businesses and Commercial Properties
Commercial premises should also have regular electrical inspections under workplace safety law. The frequency depends on the building type and usage.
What Happens During an EICR?
A qualified electrician will carry out a detailed inspection and testing process. This usually includes:
| Inspection Step | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Visual inspection | Checking visible wiring, sockets, switches and consumer unit for signs of damage or wear |
| Dead testing | Testing circuits without power to identify insulation problems or continuity issues |
| Live testing | Ensuring the system works safely when energised |
| Earthing checks | Confirming the system is safely earthed |
| Circuit load checks | Ensuring circuits are not overloaded |
| Fault finding | Identifying any hazards or deterioration |
The electrician will then produce the Electrical Installation Condition Report summarising their findings.
EICR Codes Explained
The report uses a coding system to rate any issues found:
| Code | Meaning | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| C1 | Danger present | Immediate action required |
| C2 | Potentially dangerous | Urgent remedial work advised |
| C3 | Improvement recommended | Not dangerous, but upgrade suggested |
| FI | Further investigation needed | More detailed testing required |
If your report contains a C1 or C2, the installation is classed as unsatisfactory until the faults are repaired.
How Long Does an EICR Last?
Typical recommended intervals are:
- Owner-occupied homes: every 10 years
- Rented property: every 5 years
- Businesses: usually every 3 to 5 years depending on environment
You should also arrange an EICR:
- After flood or fire damage
- Before buying or selling a property
- If you notice electrical issues
- In older homes with outdated wiring
How Long Does an EICR Take?
The time depends on property size and condition:
| Property Type | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| 1 bed flat | 2 to 3 hours |
| 3 bed house | 3 to 5 hours |
| Large homes or commercial buildings | 1 day or more |
You will receive the written report after testing is complete.
Who Can Carry Out an EICR?
Only a qualified and competent electrician should carry out an EICR. In the UK, that normally means they are registered with a recognised body such as:
- NICEIC
- NAPIT
- ELECSA
This ensures they are trained, insured and working to national safety standards.
How Much Does an EICR Cost?
Costs vary depending on the size and type of property, but as a guide:
| Property Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 1–2 bed flat | £120–£180 |
| 3–4 bed house | £180–£250 |
| Larger homes or commercial | £250+ |
If repairs are needed, these are usually quoted separately.
Do You Need an EICR in Exeter?
At Home Exeter, we provide professional, fully certified EICR inspections for:
- Homeowners
- Landlords
- Letting agents
- Commercial premises
We explain everything clearly and provide transparent pricing with no hidden extras.
You can also discuss any recommended repairs with our qualified electricians.
Frequently Asked Questions About EICR Meaning
Is an EICR the same as a PAT test?
No. A PAT test checks portable appliances, while an EICR covers the fixed electrical installation.
Does an EICR include appliances like ovens or fridges?
It covers the wiring supplying them, but not the appliance itself unless it is hard-wired.
What happens if my EICR is unsatisfactory?
You must arrange repairs for any C1 or C2 faults. Once fixed, the installation will be considered safe.
Can a tenant refuse entry for an EICR?
Tenants must be given reasonable notice. Landlords should keep evidence of attempts to arrange access.
How do I know if my wiring is outdated?
Signs include fabric-covered wiring, metal switches, fuses instead of breakers, or frequent tripping.
Need an EICR in Exeter?
Home Exeter provides reliable, professional electrical testing and certification across the local area. Whether you are a landlord, homeowner or business, we will ensure your property meets current safety standards.
Book your Electrical Installation Condition Report today and get peace of mind that your electrics are safe, compliant and professionally inspected.
If you would like a quote or to book an EICR, simply get in touch via the website.
