How Much Does an EICR Cost? A Guide for Homeowners and Landlords

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is an essential safety check for both homeowners and landlords, ensuring that electrical systems meet current regulations and pose no risk to occupants. Whether you’re renting out a property or just want peace of mind about your home’s wiring, understanding the cost of an EICR can help you plan ahead and avoid unexpected expenses.

What Factors Affect the Cost of an EICR?

The price of an EICR varies depending on several key factors, including the size of the property, the complexity of the electrical system, and the electrician’s qualifications.

• Property Size – Larger properties require more circuits to be tested, increasing the overall cost. A one-bedroom flat will typically be cheaper to inspect than a five-bedroom house.
• Age and Condition of Wiring – Older properties with outdated wiring may take longer to inspect, leading to higher costs.
• Number of Electrical Installations – The more sockets, light fittings, and appliances in use, the more thorough the inspection needs to be.
• Commercial vs. Residential – Commercial properties often have more complex electrical systems, which require additional testing and higher certification standards.

Why Is an EICR Important?

An EICR is not just about compliance—it’s a crucial safety measure. Electrical faults are a leading cause of house fires, and regular testing ensures that wiring, fuse boards, and electrical fittings remain in good condition. For landlords, it’s also a legal requirement to provide a valid EICR every five years to ensure tenant safety. Failing to have an up-to-date EICR could result in fines or legal action if electrical issues arise.

How to Get an Accurate EICR Cost Estimate

Since the price of an EICR can vary, it’s best to use an EICR cost calculator to get a clear estimate based on your specific property type. This helps you budget effectively and ensures there are no hidden surprises when booking an inspection.

What Happens During an EICR?

An EICR inspection typically includes:

• A full assessment of wiring, sockets, and electrical panels
• Identification of any potential hazards or non-compliance issues
• Testing of protective devices such as RCDs (Residual Current Devices)
• A detailed report with recommendations for any necessary repairs or upgrades

If your installation is found to be unsatisfactory, the report will outline what needs to be fixed to bring it up to standard. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintaining electrical safety.

When Should You Book an EICR?

For landlords, EICRs must be renewed every five years or at the start of a new tenancy. Homeowners, while not legally required, should have their electrical systems inspected at least once every ten years. However, if you’ve recently moved into a new property, have concerns about your wiring, or have noticed flickering lights and frequent circuit trips, booking an EICR sooner is highly recommended.

Conclusion

Understanding the cost of an EICR helps homeowners and landlords stay compliant, protect their property, and ensure the safety of occupants. With various factors influencing the price, using an EICR cost calculator is the easiest way to get an accurate quote. Whether you need an EICR for legal compliance or peace of mind, regular electrical checks are an investment in long-term safety and efficiency.