We recently spent a day in central London carrying out Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs). These inspections ensure electrical safety and compliance with regulations. They also help to prevent hazards like electrical fires and electric shock.
New EICR rules for social housing
Updated standards for new social housing tenancies came into effect on 1 December 2025. For social housing tenancies that started before 1 December, the regulations will come into force on 1 May 2026. All checks must be completed before 1 November 2026.
Social landlords must make sure a qualified person completes electrical inspections for their rented properties at least every five years. If properties include electrical equipment this also requires testing at least every five years.
Tenants must receive proof of inspection and testing of installations and equipment. Recommended repairs or further investigations must take place within 28 days, unless the inspection requires a shorter timescale. Landlords must also provide copies of the reports to their local council when requested.
Which properties do the new electrical inspection regulations affect?
The new rules apply to properties completely or partly used as ‘dwellings’. They apply where tenants occupy their property as their only or main residence and pay rent. However, there are some exceptions, including:
shared accommodation with the landlord or the landlord’s family
long leases (including shared ownership leases) or tenancies that grant a right of occupation of seven years or more
student halls of residence
hostels and refuges
care homes, hospitals and hospices
other accommodation relating to providing healthcare
mobile homes, caravans and boats.
Meeting electrical safety standards
Social housing properties must meet the requirements of the Wiring Regulations. Landlords must obtain an EICR report for properties and electrical equipment and complete any required work. Each EICR will confirm the date of the next report.
Prospective tenants can ask for a copy of the report and new tenants must receive a copy before moving in. Landlords must keep a copy of the latest report and give it to the qualified person who carries out the next report.
What requires inspection and testing?
Inspection and testing must include the electricity supply, wiring, sockets, light fittings and the consumer unit. It also includes permanently connected equipment such as showers and extractors. The rules also apply to specialist equipment such as solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and battery storage. Electrical Safety First provides a Good Practice Guide for landlords, letting agents and people who maintain rented homes. Following updating or remodelling, properties will require a new EICR.
What is an EICR?
An EICR identifies damage, deterioration or defects that could be dangerous. It includes a visual check and a full inspection and testing procedure carried out by a ‘competent person’ (a qualified electrician). An EICR can also highlight improvements to reduce the amount of electricity used and help you to make savings on your energy costs.
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