How do you get an electrical safety test certificate in London?
Most people don’t think about their home’s electrics until something goes wrong. It’s easy to forget about what’s behind the walls, but electrical wiring and systems wear out over time. Even if everything seems fine, hidden faults could be putting your home or business at risk.
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a safety check that makes sure your electrics are working properly and meet legal standards. Whether you own a home, rent out a property, or run a business, you need an up-to-date EICR to stay safe and compliant. Getting one is straightforward—you just need a qualified electrician to carry out an inspection and issue a certificate.
What is an EICR and why do you need one?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a detailed check of your electrical system. It looks at your wiring, fuse board, sockets, and other fixed electrics to make sure everything is safe. The electrician will spot any potential problems like outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, or fire risks.
In London, many homes and buildings are old, which makes regular electrical checks even more important. An EICR helps prevent electrical accidents, reduces fire hazards, and ensures your property follows safety regulations under BS 7671 Wiring Regulations.
Who needs an EICR in London?
Do landlords need an EICR by law?
If you rent out a property in London, you must have an EICR done every five years by law. This is part of the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020. Without one, you could be fined up to £30,000. An EICR for landlords ensures that rental properties meet UK electrical safety regulations, protecting tenants from potential hazards.
Should homeowners get an EICR?
There’s no legal requirement for homeowners, but getting an EICR every 10 years is a good idea. If you’re selling your home, a recent electrical safety certificate can help speed up the process. Some mortgage lenders and insurers also ask for one before they approve a loan or policy. If your property has old wiring or has undergone significant renovation, an earlier inspection may be necessary.
Do businesses and commercial properties need an EICR?
If you own a shop, office, or any commercial space, you need an EICR to meet the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. Regular inspections keep your staff and customers safe and ensure you’re following the law. PAT testing may also be required for electrical appliances used in commercial settings.
Pro Tip Fix Minor Issues Before the Inspection: If you’ve noticed flickering lights, buzzing sockets, or frequent circuit trips, get them checked before your EICR to increase your chances of passing.
What happens during an EICR inspection?
Step 1: Book a Qualified Electrician
Not just anyone can carry out an EICR—you need a professional who’s registered with NICEIC, NAPIT, or another approved body. My Electrical Hero provides qualified electricians across London who are trained to carry out these inspections properly.
Step 2: The Inspection
Your electrician will test and check:
Fuse boards (consumer units)
Wiring and protective bonding
Sockets, light fittings, and switches
Earthing and bonding connections
They’ll also carry out dead testing (power off) and live testing (power on) to check for faults and safety risks.
Step 3: Your EICR Report
After the inspection, you’ll get a report listing any issues. These will be rated as:
C1 (Immediate Danger): Needs urgent fixing
C2 (Potential Danger): Repairs needed soon
C3 (Improvement Recommended): Not urgent but worth addressing
If your report includes any C1 or C2 faults, they must be fixed before your electrical installation certificate can be issued.
Need an Urgent EICR? We’ve Got You Covered!
Same-day and next-day appointments available across London. Don’t risk non-compliance—secure your electrical safety certificate today.
How much does an EICR cost in London?
Prices vary depending on the size of your property and the number of circuits tested. Here’s a rough guide:
1-bedroom flat: £120 – £150
3-bedroom house: £180 – £250
Larger homes: £250+
Commercial properties: Prices depend on size and complexity
My Electrical Hero offers fixed prices with no hidden charges, so you know exactly what to expect.
How long is an EICR valid for?
Landlords: Every 5 years
Homeowners: Every 10 years (recommended)
Commercial properties: Varies depending on business type and risk level
Pro Tip Keep Your Previous EICR Reports: Providing past EICR reports to your electrician can speed up the inspection and highlight any recurring issues.
Stay Compliant With An EICR
Landlords must have an EICR every 5 years to meet legal requirements. Get yours done hassle-free by certified electricians.
What happens if you don’t have an EICR?
For landlords, not having an up-to-date EICR can lead to fines of up to £30,000. Homeowners without one may struggle with home insurance claims if an electrical fault causes damage. Poor electrics can also lead to electrical fires, shocks, and costly repairs.
Why book your EICR with My Electrical Hero?
Certified electricians – NICEIC and NAPIT approved
Flexible appointments – including weekends and same-day slots
Clear pricing – no hidden costs
Easy-to-understand reports – with recommendations if needed
Fast repairs available – to fix any issues found during the inspection
Book your EICR in London today
Getting an EICR in London is simple with My Electrical Hero. Whether you need an inspection for your home, rental property, or business, our expert electricians make the process hassle-free. Book now to get your electrical safety certificate quickly and with no stress.
FAQs About EICR’s We Get
1. How long does an EICR take?
It depends on the size of your property, but most inspections take between 1 to 4 hours.
2. Can a property fail an EICR?
Yes. If your report includes C1 or C2 issues, it will be marked as unsatisfactory. You’ll need to fix the problems before your certificate can be issued.
3. Do all landlords need an EICR?
Yes. All rental properties in London must have an EICR every five years.
4. How can I tell if my electrics are unsafe before an EICR?
Watch out for frequent circuit trips, burning smells, buzzing sockets, flickering lights, or outdated wiring.
5. Can My Electrical Hero fix EICR issues?
Yes! If your property doesn’t pass the inspection, we’ll carry out any necessary repairs and issue your certificate once everything is safe.
