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How often do landlords need EICR certificates

“Landlords have a legal obligation to ensure that the electrical installations in their rental properties are safe for tenants to use. One of the key ways to meet this obligation is by obtaining an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) certificate. But how often do landlords actually need to obtain these certificates?

The short answer is that landlords are required to obtain an EICR certificate at least every five years, or more frequently if recommended by the report. This requirement is outlined in the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, which came into force on 1 June 2020.

The purpose of the EICR certificate is to assess the safety of the electrical installations in a rental property and identify any potential hazards or defects that could pose a risk to tenants. The inspection is carried out by a qualified electrician who will thoroughly examine the wiring, sockets, switches, and other electrical components in the property.

If the electrician finds any issues during the inspection, they will categorize them as either C1 (danger present), C2 (potentially dangerous), or C3 (improvement recommended). Landlords are required to address any C1 or C2 issues within 28 days of the inspection, or sooner if the electrician deems it necessary.

In addition to the mandatory five-yearly inspections, landlords may also need to obtain an EICR certificate under the following circumstances:

– When a new tenancy begins: Landlords must provide a copy of the EICR certificate to new tenants before they move in. This is to ensure that tenants are aware of the safety of the electrical installations in the property.

– Following a change of tenancy: If a new tenant moves in after the EICR certificate was issued, the landlord may need to obtain a new certificate to ensure that the electrical installations remain safe.

– When there is a change in the property: If any electrical work is carried out in the property, such as installing new wiring or sockets, the landlord should obtain a new EICR certificate to confirm that the work complies with safety standards.

It is important for landlords to keep track of when their EICR certificates are due for renewal and ensure that they are obtained in a timely manner. Failure to comply with the regulations can result in fines of up to £30,000, so it is crucial for landlords to take their responsibilities seriously.

In conclusion, landlords are required to obtain an EICR certificate at least every five years to ensure the safety of the electrical installations in their rental properties. They may also need to obtain certificates in other circumstances, such as when a new tenancy begins or following a change in the property. By staying on top of their obligations and ensuring that their properties are safe for tenants to use, landlords can avoid potential risks and legal consequences.”

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