If you’re selling a home in the UK, you might be wondering whether you need an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). While it’s not a legal requirement for homeowners, more and more buyers and solicitors are requesting one as part of the property sale process.
In this guide, we’ll explain when an EICR is needed, why it can help with selling your property, and how to book a certified electrical safety inspection in your area.
Is an EICR Legally Required When Selling a House in the UK?
No, homeowners are not legally required to provide an EICR when selling their property. However, landlords must have a valid EICR by law when renting out a home. That said, many homeowners choose to obtain an electrical certificate before putting their house on the market.
Why You Should Get an EICR Before Selling
Although it’s optional, there are several strong reasons to consider booking an EICR before selling your house:
- ✅ Builds buyer confidence: A recent EICR shows your electrical installation is safe and compliant, making your home more attractive to potential buyers.
- ✅ Prevents last-minute issues: Surveyors or conveyancers may request an EICR during the sales process. Having one in advance helps avoid delays.
- ✅ Strengthens your position: A clean electrical report can help prevent buyers from using electrical concerns to negotiate a lower price.
- ✅ Ideal for older properties: If your wiring hasn’t been inspected in years, the report can flag any safety concerns before they become deal-breakers.
How Often Should You Have an EICR?
The recommended intervals for electrical inspections are:
- Every 10 years for owner-occupied homes
- Every 5 years for rental properties
- After major renovation work or noticeable electrical issues
If your property hasn’t been inspected in over a decade, or you’ve experienced issues like tripping circuits, flickering lights, or outdated fuse boxes, an EICR is a wise precaution.
What Happens If Your Home Fails the EICR?
If your property doesn’t meet current safety standards, the report will be marked as “Unsatisfactory” and include any issues that need addressing. These are typically coded as follows:
- C1: Danger present – immediate action required
- C2: Potentially dangerous – urgent attention needed
- FI: Further investigation needed
Once any required repairs or upgrades are completed by a qualified electrician, a new satisfactory report can be issued for your records and buyer confidence.
What’s Included in an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report involves a thorough inspection and testing of your property’s fixed wiring system, including:
- Consumer unit (fuse board)
- Sockets, switches and lighting circuits
- Earthing and bonding arrangements
- Visual and electrical tests on key components
- A detailed report highlighting any safety concerns
All inspections should be carried out by a registered and qualified electrician who can provide certification to recognised industry standards.
Do Buyers or Sellers Pay for the EICR?
There’s no fixed rule, but in most property sales, the seller chooses to pay for the EICR as part of the preparation. It helps reduce the risk of delays, supports transparency, and ensures there are no electrical surprises for the buyer during conveyancing.
Areas We Cover for Homeowner EICRs
Get in touch with the Martin Cook Electrical Services team today and request your free, no-obligation quotation. Have any questions? We’re here to help with any of your queries.
At Martin Cook Electrical, we carry out Electrical Installation Condition Reports for homeowners across a wide area, including:
- Central London
- North London
- South London
- East London
- West London
- Bedford
- Luton
- Milton Keynes
- Northampton
- St Albans
- Watford
- Stevenage
- Hemel Hempstead
- Aylesbury
If you’re selling your home in any of these areas and need a qualified electrician to carry out a certified EICR, we’re here to help.
Book Your EICR Today
Martin Cook Electrical is an NICEIC-Approved Contractor, providing reliable, fully certified EICRs for homeowners and sellers across all our advertised service areas. All work is completed by experienced, qualified electricians and fully documented to industry standards.
📞 Call us today 01525 582582 to request your EICR booking.
FAQs – EICRs and Property Sales
Is an EICR required to sell a property in the UK?
No, it is not a legal requirement for sellers, but it’s highly recommended to avoid delays and reassure buyers.
How long does an EICR inspection take?
Most inspections take between 4 and 8 hours depending on the size and condition of the property.
How long is an EICR valid for?
For owner-occupied homes, an EICR is typically valid for up to 10 years, unless major changes or issues arise sooner.
Can I sell my house without an EICR?
Yes, but you may encounter requests for one during the sale. Providing an EICR early can prevent complications later on.
Can I use an old EICR?
If your last report is more than 10 years old, it may not reflect current safety standards. A fresh report is recommended for a smooth sale.
