When it comes to renting or owning property in London, staying compliant with electrical safety laws is not optional. One key requirement is having a valid Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)—but the question we often hear at RCD Electrical is: “Who pays for it?”
We’ve broken it all down to help you understand the financial responsibilities surrounding EICRs—whether you're a landlord, tenant, or homeowner. As certified NICEIC electricians, we ensure every EICR is carried out with precision, transparency, and care.
1. Landlords Are Legally Responsible
Under current UK regulations, landlords are legally required to obtain an EICR every five years—or sooner if the report recommends it. This applies to all rental properties, whether it's a single flat or a portfolio of homes.
At RCD Electrical, we’ve helped countless London landlords meet these obligations with minimal fuss. The cost of the EICR falls squarely on the landlord's shoulders, as it’s considered a legal requirement to ensure tenant safety.
Important note: You cannot charge your tenants for this. The law clearly states the responsibility lies with the person who is renting out the property—not the occupant.
2. Homeowners & Buyers – When Should You Pay?
If you’re a homeowner, getting an EICR is entirely voluntary unless you’re planning to sell, carry out renovations, or simply want peace of mind about your home’s electrical health.
In this case, you’ll cover the cost yourself as it’s done at your discretion. However, we at RCD Electrical often recommend periodic inspections—especially for older properties, or after major electrical work.
Homebuyers may also choose to get an EICR before completing a purchase. While not mandatory, it's a wise investment, and again, the buyer usually pays for this report—not the seller.
3. Tenants – Are You Ever Responsible?
In most cases, tenants are not responsible for paying for an EICR. However, things can get slightly murky when it comes to commercial leases or “full repairing and insuring” (FRI) leases.
In commercial property agreements, some contracts may pass on the cost of maintenance and safety checks—including EICRs—to the tenant. If that’s the case, the lease should specify this. At RCD Electrical, we recommend that tenants clarify responsibilities before signing.
For residential renters, though, the landlord always foots the bill.
4. Commercial Properties – It Depends on the Lease
In commercial settings, responsibility often comes down to the wording of the lease. If you're running a business in a rented space, it's essential to review your lease terms.
Some commercial tenants may be asked to cover EICR costs, especially if they are responsible for maintaining the interior infrastructure. If you're unsure, our team at RCD Electrical can review your situation and guide you accordingly.
No matter who’s paying, our commercial EICRs are fully compliant, clearly documented, and competitively priced.
5. Why Choose RCD Electrical for Your EICR in London?
At RCD Electrical, we take pride in offering clear pricing, fully NICEIC-certified reports, and no hidden charges. Whether you're a landlord managing a property in Notting Hill, a business owner in Camden, or a homeowner in Finchley, we tailor our service to your needs.
You’ll receive a thorough inspection, transparent recommendations, and expert advice on any remedial actions—backed by years of experience in London’s diverse electrical infrastructure.
Call us today on 02034882928 or email info@rcdelectrician.co.uk
Quick Recap:
| Role |
Pays for EICR? |
Notes |
| Landlord |
✅ Yes |
Legal requirement every 5 years |
| Tenant |
❌ No (Residential) |
May apply in commercial leases |
| Homeowner |
✅ Yes (if voluntary) |
Not mandatory but recommended |
| Homebuyer |
✅ Yes (optional) |
For peace of mind before buying |
| Commercial Tenant |
⚠️ Sometimes |
Check your lease agreement |