EICRs: An upcoming influx of renewals

Remember the flurry of activity in 2020 and 2021 when Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) became a legal requirement for all tenanted properties? Well, get ready for a sequel. Because EICRs are valid for five years, and that initial wave of compliance is about to hit its renewal date – all at once.

Let's recap: EICRs became mandatory for new tenancies on 1st July 2020, and for existing tenancies by 1st April 2021. Fast forward five years, and between July 2025 and April 2026, a massive number of rental properties will require renewed EICRs. This means a surge in demand for qualified electricians, and potentially, a bottleneck in getting your property certified.

Why the rush matters (and why you shouldn't wait)

This isn't just a matter of ticking a box. EICRs are crucial for ensuring the safety of your tenants and protecting your investment. But here's why the impending wave of renewals should have you acting now:

Contractor shortage: The sheer volume of properties requiring EICRs will likely put a strain on available contractors. Booking early is essential to avoid delays and ensure your property remains compliant.
Regulation updates: EICR regulations are updated annually. Most landlords, having obtained their initial certificates five years ago, may be unaware of these changes. This could lead to unexpected remedial work being required to achieve compliance. Particularly with regard to outdated RCD boards.
No grace period: There's no leeway between your EICR's expiry date and the completion of any necessary repairs. If you wait until the last minute and your property fails the inspection, you're immediately non-compliant and legally unable to let the property. This risks significant fines.
Legal implications: A valid EICR is essential for serving notice or increasing rent. Without it, you could face legal challenges.

How to stay ahead of the curve

Proactive planning is key.

Don't wait: While we will notify you two months prior to your compliance checks (EICRs, EPCs, GSCs), given the anticipated demand, we highly recommend contacting us now to bring your check forward. This allows ample time to address any necessary remedial work and ensures you remain compliant.
Partner with a letting agent: Managing compliance can be a headache. If you're not already benefitting from our full management service, rest assured that you can offload this burden. We'll handle the scheduling, ensure qualified electricians are used, and keep you informed of any regulatory changes. We'll also proactively manage your renewals so you don't have to worry about missing deadlines.

Staying compliant with EICR regulations isn't just a legal requirement; it's about providing safe homes for your tenants and protecting your investment. By acting now, you can easily navigate the upcoming wave of renewals and ensure your property remains compliant, safe, and legally rentable.

Contact our Property Accounts Team today to discuss your EICR renewal and how we can help you stay ahead of the rush.

Posted By

Hannah Pinder