EICR Rules for Landlords in Scotland Explained

What is an EICR and why it matters

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) checks the fixed wiring, consumer unit and other permanent electrical parts in a rented home. Tenants rely on these checks to confirm sockets, lights and switches are safe and that there is no dangerous wiring that could cause shocks or fire.

What landlords in Scotland must do

Scottish Government guidance sets out expectations for electrical safety in the private rented sector.^[1] Under the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 landlords must ensure the property meets the repairing standard, which includes safe electrical installations.^[2] There is no single national EICR form to file with government; instead a registered electrician issues the EICR certificate after inspection.

Typical landlord actions

• Ask a qualified electrician to inspect, record the results and issue an EICR certificate.
• Arrange checks before re-letting or within a reasonable time after a tenant reports electrical problems.
• Complete required repairs shown on the EICR within a reasonable time.
• Provide tenants with the EICR report or a written notice that work is planned.

When tenants should worry and what to do

If you notice exposed wiring, persistent tripping of circuits, burning smells or electric shocks, raise it with your landlord immediately in writing and keep a copy. If the issue is an immediate danger, call emergency services and your local electricity supplier.

Steps to report an electrical safety concern

1. If there is immediate danger (sparks, burning smell, visible smoke), call emergency services and your electricity supplier.
2. Take photos, note dates and describe symptoms so you have evidence.
3. Notify your landlord in writing (email or letter) and keep a copy for your records.
4. If the landlord does not act within a reasonable time, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) for a Repairing Standard Enforcement Order.^[3]
5. Consider temporary safety measures or moving out if the property is declared unsafe; get advice first.

Forms and official actions

There is no separate UK government "EICR form." An EICR is a certificate given by a qualified electrician. If a landlord fails to fix dangerous electrics, tenants can use the tribunal application for the repairing standard. The usual document is titled "Application to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) – Repairing Standard" and guidance and application details are available from the tribunal site.^[3]

FAQ

Do landlords have to get an EICR in Scotland?

Scotland's repairing standard requires landlords to keep electrical systems safe, but there is not a single statutory frequency for EICRs; many landlords choose five-year checks or sooner for older properties.^[2]

Can I see the EICR as a tenant?

Yes. Ask your landlord for a copy of the EICR certificate or written confirmation that necessary work has been arranged; keep the request in writing.

What official body handles disputes about electrical safety?

The First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) deals with repairing standard disputes and enforcement orders.^[3]

How-To

1. Identify immediate danger and call emergency services if needed.
2. Collect evidence: photos, dates, times and any correspondence.
3. Send a written report to your landlord and ask for an EICR or repairs within a clear timescale.
4. If the landlord does not act, follow the tribunal application process for a Repairing Standard Enforcement Order.^[3]
5. Seek free advice from local tenant support services or local authority housing if needed.

Key Takeaways

• Electrical safety is part of the repairing standard in Scotland and tenants can expect safe wiring.
• Request and keep records or copies of any EICR and repair confirmation from your landlord.
• If a landlord won't act, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for enforcement.

Help and Support / Resources

• Contact the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)
• Scottish Government: Electrical safety guidance
• Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016

1. [1] Scottish Government: Electrical safety guidance
2. [2] Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 on legislation.gov.uk
3. [3] First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)