When it comes to ensuring the safety and compliance of your electrical installations, an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a legal and practical necessity. At RCD Electrical, we specialise in delivering accurate, thorough EICR assessments for both residential and commercial clients across London. But one of the most frequent questions we get asked is: how long is an EICR certificate valid? The answer can vary depending on the property type and its usage — and we’re here to clarify it for you.
Standard EICR Validity Periods
For most residential rental properties, an EICR certificate is legally valid for 5 years, as per the latest government legislation introduced in 2020 under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations.
However, that 5-year figure isn’t a blanket rule for all scenarios. Here’s a breakdown of typical validity durations:
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Private Rented Homes – Every 5 years or at the start of a new tenancy
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HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) – Every 5 years
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Commercial Properties – Typically every 5 years, though some require shorter intervals
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Industrial Premises – Often every 3 years or sooner, based on operational load
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Owner-Occupied Homes – Recommended every 10 years (not legally required but strongly advised)
At RCD Electrical, we assess more than just timelines. Our electricians evaluate the condition of the entire installation and will recommend earlier reassessments if risks or deterioration are detected.
When Should an EICR Be Renewed Sooner?
Though a certificate might be valid for 5 years, certain situations demand more frequent inspections. Examples include:
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Visible signs of wear (e.g. burning smells, sparks, buzzing sounds)
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Change of use (e.g. from residential to commercial)
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After major renovations or rewiring work
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New occupancy or tenancy agreement
Landlords should also note: letting a property without a valid EICR breaches legal requirements. At RCD Electrical, we help ensure every document is issued correctly, dated, and available to tenants and letting agents.
What Happens After Your EICR Expires?
Once the validity period of your EICR has passed, the certificate is no longer considered acceptable for compliance purposes. That means:
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Landlords may face fines up to £30,000 for non-compliance
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Insurers may decline claims linked to electrical faults
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Tenants may legally request proof of updated testing
At RCD Electrical, we maintain secure digital records of every report we issue. Our team sends automatic reminders to clients when their renewal is due, ensuring you remain fully compliant year-round.
Why Choose RCD Electrical for EICR Services?
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NICEIC-Approved Contractors
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Specialists in landlord and commercial compliance
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Detailed, jargon-free reports with expert follow-up
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Affordable EICR packages tailored to property type
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Same-day and emergency bookings available in London
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Transparent pricing and fully insured service
We take electrical safety seriously — not just ticking boxes but ensuring that your property is genuinely secure. Whether it’s a one-off inspection or long-term compliance support, RCD Electrical has the experience, certification, and reliability you need.
What an EICR from RCD Electrical Covers
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) by RCD Electrical includes:
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Inspection of circuits, sockets, lighting, and consumer units
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Identification of deterioration, overloads, and faulty workmanship
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Detection of potential electric shock risks or fire hazards
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Recommendations and coding of issues (C1, C2, C3)
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Clear guidance on required repairs and next steps
The end result? A reliable and understandable report that outlines whether your installation is Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory, with repair options where needed.
Book Your EICR Today with RCD Electrical
Whether you're a landlord preparing for tenancy, a business owner looking for compliance, or a homeowner wanting peace of mind — don’t wait until it’s too late.
Call 02034882928
Email info@rcdelectrician.co.uk
Our team is based in London and ready to assist with same-day EICR inspections, advice, and certified documentation.
Conclusion
The validity of an EICR certificate depends on your property type, but for most rented homes in London, it’s 5 years. However, responsible ownership often means checking more frequently. At RCD Electrical, we not only inspect — we guide, document, and ensure you meet all legal obligations with confidence. Trust us to protect your tenants, your property, and your peace of mind.