How Often Should You Get an EICR? A West Midlands Homeowner's Guide
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is one of the most important safety checks you can have done on your property. But how often do you actually need one? We break it down for West Midlands homeowners and landlords.
What is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) — sometimes called a periodic inspection report — is a formal assessment of the electrical installations within a property. A qualified electrician will inspect and test all fixed wiring, consumer units, sockets, switches, and other electrical components to ensure they meet current safety standards (BS 7671).
The report grades any issues found using a coding system: C1 (danger present, immediate action required), C2 (potentially dangerous), C3 (improvement recommended), and FI (further investigation required).
How Often Do You Need an EICR?
The recommended frequency depends on the type of property:
Legally required since 2020 under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations.
Recommended by the IET and NICEIC. More frequently if you notice any electrical issues.
A homebuyer electrical report gives you peace of mind and can be used in price negotiations.
Or more frequently depending on the type of business and usage.
What Happens During an EICR Inspection?
Our NICEIC-approved electricians will carry out a thorough inspection of your property's electrical installation. This typically takes 2–4 hours for an average 3-bedroom home. Here's what's involved:
- 1Visual inspection of all accessible electrical components
- 2Testing of the consumer unit (fuse board) and all circuits
- 3Checking earthing and bonding arrangements
- 4Testing RCDs (residual current devices) for correct operation
- 5Inspecting sockets, switches, and light fittings
- 6Checking for any signs of overheating, damage, or deterioration
EICR for Landlords in the West Midlands
If you're a landlord in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Walsall, Dudley, Solihull, Coventry or anywhere across the West Midlands, you are legally required to have a valid EICR for your rental property. The regulations state:
- An EICR must be carried out at least every 5 years
- A copy must be provided to existing tenants within 28 days
- New tenants must receive a copy before they move in
- Any C1 or C2 issues must be remedied within 28 days
- Local councils can impose fines of up to £30,000 for non-compliance
How Much Does an EICR Cost in the West Midlands?
EICR costs vary depending on the size of the property and the number of circuits. As a guide:
All prices include the full inspection, testing, and a detailed written report. Remedial works are quoted separately if required.
Need an EICR in the West Midlands?
NICEIC approved. Fast turnaround. Competitive pricing. Serving Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Solihull & beyond.