When it comes to buying or selling a home, there are countless things to consider—surveys, valuations, paperwork, and legalities. But one crucial aspect that's often overlooked is the condition of the electrical installation. That’s where an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) comes into play.
Whether you're a seller wanting to add value and reassurance to your sale, or a buyer ensuring your new home is safe and up to standard, an EICR is a smart move. Here's why.
What Is an EICR?
An EICR is a detailed inspection carried out by a qualified electrician to assess the safety and condition of a property's electrical system. It checks whether the wiring, sockets, fuse board, and other components are compliant with current regulations and safe to use.
The outcome of the report will be one of the following:
Satisfactory – the installation is safe and no remedial work is needed.
Unsatisfactory – faults were found, and remedial work is required.
Why Sellers Should Get an EICR
1. Boost Buyer Confidence
Having a recent, satisfactory EICR can be a selling point. It shows the property has been responsibly maintained, reducing hesitation or delays during the sale process.
2. Avoid Sale Disruption
If issues are discovered during a buyer’s inspection, it could lead to renegotiations, price reductions, or even a collapsed sale. Proactively addressing electrical safety ensures a smoother transaction.
3. Legal and Insurance Considerations
While it’s not yet a legal requirement in private home sales, some solicitors or insurers may request an EICR, particularly for older properties or when questions arise about the electrical system’s age.
Why Buyers Should Request an EICR
1. Safety First
Electrical faults cause thousands of fires in UK homes each year. An EICR helps you avoid moving into a home with hidden dangers like outdated wiring or overloaded circuits.
2. Budget Planning
If the report flags issues, you’ll know what needs fixing and how much it might cost. This can influence your offer or give you negotiating power.
3. Compliance and Peace of Mind
Knowing your new home complies with current wiring regulations (BS 7671) means one less thing to worry about. It’s also crucial if you plan to rent out the property in the future—landlords are legally required to have valid EICRs.
When Should an EICR Be Done?
For homeowners, it’s recommended every 10 years, or every 5 years for rental properties. But during a property transaction, it’s wise to have one done before listing (for sellers) or as part of your due diligence (for buyers).
How Much Does an EICR Cost?
The cost of an EICR typically depends on the size of the property and the complexity of the electrical installation, but prices usually range from £150 to £300+. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind and negotiating leverage.
What Happens If the EICR Fails?
If the EICR is unsatisfactory, the report will highlight “C1” (danger present), “C2” (potential danger), or “FI” (further investigation required) codes. A qualified electrician can then carry out the necessary remedial work to bring the installation up to standard.
Once completed, a satisfactory certificate can be issued.
Final Thoughts
An EICR isn’t just a box-ticking exercise—it’s an essential part of ensuring your home is safe, functional, and compliant. Whether you're buying or selling, investing in an EICR could save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
If you’re considering a property transaction, don’t overlook your electrics. Book a certified electrician to carry out an EICR and proceed with confidence.
Need an EICR?
Our team of qualified electricians is here to help. Get in touch today to book your inspection or find out more.