Quick answer
An HMO in England needs an EICR at least every 5 years, or sooner if the inspector recommends it. Existing tenants must get a copy within 28 days, the council within 7 days of asking, and urgent faults (C1 and C2) must be put right within 28 days or sooner if the report says so.
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is the standard proof that the fixed wiring in a let property is safe. In England, private landlords, including HMO landlords, must have the electrical installation inspected and tested at least every five years. Councils also expect a satisfactory report as part of an HMO licence application or renewal.
How often is an EICR required?
The legal maximum gap is five years, counted from the date of the last inspection. The inspector can recommend a shorter interval on the report, and you must follow it. HMOs often get shorter intervals because they have more circuits, heavier use and more occupants, and because earlier work may be partly complete.
Many landlords simply align the EICR with their licence renewal date so one satisfactory report covers the whole licence period.
What does the inspection cover?
The electrician inspects and tests the consumer unit, protective devices, circuits, sockets, lighting, earthing and bonding across the whole property: every let room and the shared areas. In an HMO there are far more circuits to test than in a single let, which is why price depends on room count. Expect the property to be without power in sections for part of the visit, so tell tenants in advance.
Understanding the result
| Code | Meaning | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| C1 | Danger present | Act immediately; the electrician will often make safe on the day |
| C2 | Potentially dangerous | Urgent remedial work |
| C3 | Improvement recommended | Not required for a satisfactory outcome |
| FI | Further investigation required | Investigate promptly, because the report cannot be satisfactory until it is done |
A report with any C1, C2 or FI is classed as unsatisfactory. Once the work is done, the electrician issues written confirmation or an updated report that you can give to the council.
Who must receive a copy, and when?
- Existing tenants: within 28 days of the inspection.
- New tenants: before they move in.
- The council: within 7 days of a written request.
- Remedial work: generally within 28 days, or sooner if the report specifies.
Keep a copy until the next inspection is complete, and give the next inspector a copy of the previous report.
EICR and your HMO licence
Licence conditions normally require you to give the council a satisfactory electrical safety report when asked. Starting the EICR early in the renewal window leaves time to fix defects before submission. See our HMO licence renewal checklist.
Frequently asked questions
Does a new-build or newly converted HMO need an EICR?
Yes. The five-year clock starts from the first inspection, and the council will want evidence the installation is certified safe.
Can I use an old EICR for a licence renewal?
Only if it is still in date and satisfactory. If it is near its end date, councils often prefer a fresh one.
Who can carry out an EICR?
A competent, qualified electrician, typically registered with a competent-person scheme such as NICEIC.
Is an EICR the same as PAT testing?
No. An EICR tests the fixed wiring; PAT testing checks portable appliances. Both are common in HMOs. See PAT testing for HMOs.
Sources and further reading
- GOV.UK: Guide for landlords: electrical safety standards in the private rented sector
- GOV.UK: Your landlord’s safety responsibilities
Related guides
Need this arranged across one or several properties? Request a written quote or call 07707 999369.
This guide is general information for landlords in England, not legal advice. Councils set their own HMO licence conditions, so check your borough’s requirements before you apply or renew.