It’s hard to believe that it has now been five years since the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations came into force. Introduced in 2020, the legislation made it a legal requirement for landlords to ensure that the electrical installations in their rental properties are inspected and tested at least every five years.
As we move through 2025–2026, many landlords are now approaching (or have already passed) that five-year mark—making this the perfect time to check whether your property is still compliant.
What is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a formal document produced following an inspection of a property’s electrical systems. It assesses the safety and condition of wiring, fuse boards, sockets, and other fixed electrical parts.
The report will confirm whether the installation is:
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Satisfactory, or
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Unsatisfactory (meaning remedial works are required)
Why This Matters Now
When the legislation was first introduced, many landlords acted quickly to ensure compliance. However, those initial certificates are now expiring.
If your EICR was carried out in 2020 or early 2021, it is likely due for renewal now.
Failing to renew your EICR on time can result in:
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Non-compliance with legal obligations
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Potential fines of up to £30,000
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Increased risk to tenant safety
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Delays when re-letting or managing your property
What Landlords Should Do
Now is a good time to take a proactive approach:
1. Check Your Records
Locate your latest EICR certificate and confirm the inspection date.
2. Look at the Expiry Timeline
EICRs are typically valid for 5 years, unless stated otherwise on the report.
3. Review Any Previous Recommendations
If your last report highlighted issues (C1, C2, or FI observations), ensure these were resolved and properly documented.
4. Book Early
As more landlords reach the five-year renewal point, demand for qualified electricians may increase. Booking in advance helps avoid delays.
A Simple Way to Stay Compliant
Keeping on top of compliance can feel like another task on an already long list—but it doesn’t have to be complicated.
At Oakfield, we work with trusted, vetted contractors who can carry out EICRs efficiently and to a high standard. We can arrange inspections on your behalf, coordinate access, and ensure any follow-up works are handled quickly.
Final Thought
Electrical safety is not just a legal requirement—it’s a fundamental part of protecting your tenants and your investment.
With many original EICRs now reaching their expiry, this is the ideal time to check your position and avoid any last-minute issues.
If you’re unsure when your EICR is due, or would like help arranging an inspection, our team is always here to help.
Need assistance? Get in touch with Oakfield today and we’ll make sure your property stays fully compliant and stress-free.