If you rent out a property in England, keeping the electrics safe isn't just good practice — it's the law. The rules for the private rented sector place clear duties on landlords, and the penalties for getting it wrong can be significant. Here's a plain-English guide to what's required.

What the regulations require

Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector, landlords in England must have the fixed electrical installation inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years, and provide a copy of the report to tenants. The official GOV.UK guidance for landlords sets out the full requirements.

The EICR is the key document

Compliance centres on the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). It confirms whether the installation is satisfactory and lists any issues by code. As a landlord you must:

  • Have a valid EICR renewed at least every 5 years (or sooner if the report specifies).
  • Supply the report to existing tenants within 28 days, and to new tenants before they move in.
  • Provide it to the local authority within 7 days if requested.

If remedial work is needed

Where the report identifies C1 (danger present), C2 (potentially dangerous) or FI (further investigation) items, you must arrange remedial work — normally within 28 days, or sooner if the report states — and obtain written confirmation that the work has been completed and the installation is now safe.

We handle the whole process for landlords: inspection, certification, and any remedial work needed to reach a satisfactory report. Book a landlord EICR across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Essex.

Don't forget appliances

The fixed wiring EICR covers the installation itself. Any electrical appliances you provide — white goods, lamps, kettles — should also be maintained in a safe condition, which is where portable appliance testing (PAT) can help. Electrical Safety First has useful guidance for landlords and tenants.

Why compliance matters

Beyond the legal duty, safe electrics protect your tenants and your investment. Failing to comply can lead to enforcement action and financial penalties from the local authority, and can invalidate insurance in the event of a claim. Keeping good records of inspections and certificates is the simplest way to stay on top of it.

Make it easy — talk to Robinz Electrical

As qualified, family-run electricians we make landlord compliance straightforward: clear pricing, prompt inspections and certification you can rely on. See our inspection and testing services, or read how to choose a qualified electrician before you book.