Tenants in England need clear information about electrical safety in their homes and what rights apply when it comes to an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). This guide explains, in plain language, what an EICR is, when landlords must arrange inspections, and the tenant steps if a landlord does not comply. It covers the timelines for copies, how to request records, practical examples of using official forms, and where to seek enforcement, including the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) and local councils. If you are renting and concerned about sockets, wiring or dangerous faults, this guide shows how to protect your safety, preserve evidence, and pursue action in a straightforward way.
What is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a formal report produced by a qualified electrician after inspecting the wiring, sockets, switchgear and other fixed electrical installations in a property. The report will record observed defects and recommend remedial work or timeframes for action. Landlords in England must follow the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 when arranging inspections and sharing results[1]. Official GOV.UK guidance explains practical steps for landlords and tenants in plain language[4].
Landlord and tenant responsibilities
In England, landlords have specific duties to keep electrical installations safe; tenants have rights to information and to ask for repairs under general housing law such as the Housing Act 1988 where relevant[2]. Typical responsibilities and sensible tenant actions include:
- Provide a copy of the EICR to tenants within 28 days of the inspection or within 7 days if the landlord arranges remedial works.
- Arrange inspections carried out by a competent person at least within five-year intervals for most rented properties.
- Supply the EICR report and any supporting documents when asked so tenants can see recommended actions and deadlines.
- Complete urgent remedial repairs identified by the EICR promptly, especially where the report flags immediate danger.
- Allow reasonable access for inspections and remedial work while tenants may request reasonable notice and privacy safeguards.
What you can do if the landlord doesn't comply
If your landlord fails to arrange inspections, provide a copy of the EICR, or act on urgent safety issues, there are several practical steps a tenant can take. You can ask the local council to inspect and enforce electrical safety rules, or apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for remedies such as a rent repayment order or enforcement directions[3]. Practical tenant actions:
- Submit a written request to your landlord asking for the EICR; keep the original and a dated copy.
- Contact your local council's environmental health team to report hazardous electrical faults and request inspection.
- Apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for enforcement or a rent repayment order if other routes fail.
- Document hazards with dated photos, messages to your landlord and a short log of unsafe events.
- In an immediate danger (sparks, burning smell, exposed live wiring), call the emergency services and avoid using suspect circuits.
FAQ
- Does my landlord have to get an EICR?
- Yes. Under the electrical safety standards regulations for private rented properties in England, landlords must ensure periodic inspections and tests of electrical installations are carried out and act on any findings[1].
- How soon must I receive a copy of the EICR?
- You are entitled to a copy within 28 days of the inspection. If remedial works are required, the landlord should provide the report and evidence of the repairs shortly after completion.
- Who enforces electrical safety rules for tenants?
- Local councils (environmental health) enforce housing safety standards and can take action. Tenants may also apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for remedies such as rent repayment orders or compliance orders[3].
How-To
- Request the EICR in writing from your landlord and keep a dated copy of the request and any replies.
- If you do not receive the report within 28 days, contact your local council to report non-compliance and request inspection.
- Gather evidence: take dated photos, keep copies of messages and a short log of any electrical faults or times power failed.
- Apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) or ask the council to enforce if the landlord still does not act.
Key Takeaways
- Inspections must be arranged within five-year intervals and a copy of the EICR provided within 28 days.
- Keep written records and dated evidence to support any complaint or tribunal application.
- If the landlord does not act, contact your council or apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
Help and Support / Resources
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - how to apply and forms
- GOV.UK guidance: Electrical safety standards in the private rented sector
- The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020
