Renting in London? How to Ask Your Landlord for an EICR

If you rent a home in London, your landlord must have the electrics checked at least every five years and give you a copy of the report. Many tenants never see one, or are not sure whether they should have. This guide explains what you are entitled to, how to ask for it, and what happens if the report shows problems. It is general information, not legal advice.

What the rules say

Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, private landlords must have the electrical installation inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years, or sooner if the report says so. They must give a copy of the report, usually called an EICR, to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection, and to new tenants before they move in.

How to ask for a copy

• Ask your landlord or letting agent in writing, by email or message, so you have a record.
• Ask for the full report, not just the front page, and check the date of the inspection.
• Check that the overall result is "satisfactory". If it says "unsatisfactory", ask when the remedial work will be done.

What if the report shows faults?

If the EICR records any C1, C2 or FI items, the landlord must arrange for the work to be done within 28 days, or sooner if the report says so, and give you written confirmation that it has been completed. Our guide to what happens after an unsatisfactory EICR explains the process, and our guide to what a C2 means shows common examples.

If your landlord does not provide one

If you have asked and still have no report, you can contact your local council's private housing or environmental health team. Councils can enforce these rules and can fine landlords who do not comply. Shelter and your council's website have more guidance for tenants.

Signs to report straight away

• Burning smells, scorch marks or hot sockets and switches.
• Sparking, buzzing or regular tripping of the fuse board.
• Damaged sockets, cracked switches or exposed wires.
• Water getting into light fittings or sockets.

Our guide on why your RCD keeps tripping explains one of the most common warning signs.

For landlords

Energy North Ltd carries out EICRs for landlords across North, East and West London with City & Guilds certified electricians, usually within 48 hours. See our EICR service.