How Often Do You Need an EICR? Inspection Intervals by Property Type
The interval between EICRs depends on how the property is used and the condition of the installation. For rented homes the maximum interval is set in law; for most other premises it comes from BS 7671 and IET Guidance Note 3. In every case the inspector can recommend a shorter interval, and that recommendation is what counts.
Recommended maximum intervals
| Property | Maximum interval |
|---|---|
| Privately rented homes (England) | 5 years — legal requirement |
| Social rented homes (England) | 5 years — being phased in to 1 November 2026 |
| HMOs | 5 years, or as set by the licence |
| Owner-occupied homes | 10 years, and on change of occupancy |
| Offices, shops, hotels, schools, restaurants | 5 years |
| Industrial premises, factories | 3 years |
| Cinemas, theatres, places of public entertainment | 3 years |
| Swimming pools, saunas, caravan parks | 1 year |
| Construction site installations | 3 months |
Landlords: the five-year rule
Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must have the fixed installation inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years, give the report to existing tenants within 28 days, give it to new tenants before they move in, and give it to the local authority within seven days if asked. See our landlord EICR rules for 2026.
Businesses: the duty to maintain
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require employers and building owners to maintain electrical systems so they are safe. They do not set a fixed date, which is why the BS 7671 intervals above are used as the benchmark by insurers, auditors and enforcing authorities. Most commercial leases also make the tenant or landlord responsible for periodic fixed wire testing.
When you need an EICR sooner
- The previous report recommends a shorter interval.
- You are buying, selling or letting a property for the first time.
- There has been flood, fire or water damage, or signs of overheating.
- The use of the building has changed, for example an office converted to a gym or a house to an HMO.
- Your insurer or licensing authority asks for one.
Book your next EICR
Landlord EICRs start from £80 + VAT, HMO from £149 + VAT and commercial from £199 + VAT. Book an EICR → or read the EICR cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
How often do landlords need an EICR?
At least every five years in England, or sooner if the previous report recommends a shorter interval.
How often does a commercial building need an EICR?
Offices, shops and hotels are normally inspected every five years and industrial premises every three years, following BS 7671 and IET Guidance Note 3.
Do homeowners need an EICR?
It is not a legal requirement for owner-occupiers, but an inspection every ten years and when buying a home is recommended.
Does an EICR expire?
An EICR records a recommended date for the next inspection. For rented homes in England the next inspection must be no more than five years after the last.