EICR Rules and Remedial Deadlines for Landlords
The five-year EICR rule is a backstop, not permission to ignore an earlier date or an unsatisfactory report. Landlords need to track the inspection cycle and any required remedial or investigative work separately.
Inspection at least every five years — or sooner
The fixed electrical installation must generally be inspected and tested by a qualified person at intervals of no more than five years. If the report specifies a shorter interval, use that earlier date.
Record the next-inspection date from the EICR itself. Adding five years automatically can create a false deadline when the inspector has required an earlier review.
Unsatisfactory reports create another deadline
Where the report requires remedial work or further investigation, the landlord must normally ensure it is completed within 28 days, or within any shorter period stated in the report. This is separate from the next periodic inspection.
Obtain written confirmation that the work has been completed and the relevant safety standards are met. Keep that confirmation with the original report.
Copies must reach the right people
Give the report to an existing tenant within 28 days of the inspection and to a new tenant before occupation. Prospective tenants can request it, and a local authority can require a copy within seven days.
After remedial work, give the tenant and local authority the required written confirmation within the periods in the official guidance.
Track the report, work and next inspection
Use one property record for the EICR, one action for remedial work and one date for the next inspection. That makes an outstanding C1, C2 or further-investigation item harder to mistake for a completed renewal.
Codes and required actions must be interpreted by a competent electrical professional. A calculator can organise a stated date; it cannot assess the installation.
Frequently asked questions
No. Five years is the maximum interval in the general rule; the report can require a shorter interval.
Normally 28 days, or less if the report specifies a shorter period.
Official sources
Further reading
Related tools and guides
This guide is general information, not legal advice. We review time-sensitive claims against official sources; see our editorial policy. Always check GOV.UK or a professional for your situation.