In the current UK property landscape, an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is the most critical document in a landlord’s compliance portfolio. Following the landmark 2021 legislation, 2026 marks the first major 5-year renewal cycle, meaning thousands of existing certificates are expiring and require urgent reassessment to maintain legal tenancies. An EICR measures the safety of a building’s fixed wiring and is a legal requirement for all rental properties and a vital safeguard for home buyers.
With the government’s increasing focus on electrical safety and the proposed expansion of the “Decent Homes Standard” to the private rented sector, landlords are navigating a period of heightened scrutiny. While many regulations are already strictly enforced, the shift toward a unified safety standard is influencing how properties are managed and insured across the South East.
Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations, having a valid, “Satisfactory” EICR is a strict legal obligation for several reasons:
At First Certify, we facilitate these inspections through a panel of NAPIT and NICEIC approved electrical engineers. A qualified inspector will visit your property for a thorough onsite assessment, typically lasting 2 to 4 hours depending on the size of the installation. The engineer will examine:
Consumer Units: Checking for proper grounding, RCD protection, and overall condition.
Wiring & Circuitry: Identifying “C1” (immediate danger) and “C2” (potentially dangerous) defects.
Socket Outlets & Switches: Testing for wear, tear, and safe operation.
Earthing & Bonding: Ensuring the installation is correctly earthed to prevent electric shock.
Using the latest testing equipment, our partners process this data to produce your report and a set of clear remedial quotes if the property is “Unsatisfactory.” To ensure your property is fully prepared for market, we can also provide Professional Floor Plans or PAT Testing to ensure complete compliance.
Whether you are managing a high-density HMO portfolio in London, selling a family home in Sussex, or renewing a long-term tenancy in Brighton, our goal is a seamless, stress-free inspection. We stay at the forefront of 2026 electrical policy to advise you on which remedial works are essential for safety, ensuring your property remains compliant. With our 24-hour digital report delivery, we provide the fast-paced support the modern property industry demands. Don’t get caught in the 2026 renewal rush – book your expert assessment today.
There is currently no central public database for electrical safety reports. To verify a property’s status, the first step is to check for a “date of next inspection” sticker, which is usually located on or near the consumer unit (fuse box). If you are a landlord and cannot locate your physical paperwork for a report, your legal coverage has likely expired under the mandatory five year renewal cycle. To maintain your insurance and avoid potential local authority fines, we recommend booking an inspection to secure a valid report and ensure your fixed wiring remains fully compliant.
Q: How long does an EICR assessment take?
An EICR assessment typically takes between 1-2 hours, depending on the size of the property and the complexity of the electrical system. Larger properties with more circuits or older systems may take longer to inspect.
Q: Do I need to be present during the EICR assessment?
It’s not necessary for you to be present, but it can be helpful if you’re available to answer any questions or provide access to areas like fuse boards or electrical installations.
Q: What happens during an EICR assessment?
The assessor will examine your property’s electrical installation, including wiring, fuse boards, and electrical appliances, to ensure they meet safety standards. They will check for any potential hazards, such as overloaded circuits or faulty wiring, and identify any necessary improvements.
Q: How long is an EICR certificate valid for?
An EICR is valid for 5 years or until there is a significant change to the electrical system, such as a renovation or major electrical work.
Our online booking system is available 24/7 and allows you to book your EPC, EICR, or Gas Safety Certificates at a time that suits you best.
Steps to Book Online:
Visit our website and go to the booking page.
Select the service(s) you need (EPC, EICR, Gas Safety Certificate).
Choose your preferred time and date for the inspection.
Enter your details, address and payment information.
Confirm your booking and receive an instant confirmation email.
Advantages:
Fast and easy to schedule.
Available at any time, day or night.
Receive instant confirmation.
If you prefer to book via email or need more information before making a decision, simply email us with your booking request. We’ll get back to you promptly with available dates and confirmation of your appointment.
Email: support@firstcertify.co.uk
Advantages:
Convenient for those who prefer written communication.
Get a detailed response with all your questions answered.
Can be used for more complex inquiries or bookings.
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Join Our Team of Accredited EPC Assessors First Certify is expanding, and we are looking for qualified Domestic Energy Assessors (DEAs) to cover Sussex, London, and the South East. As the property market prepares for the 2026 EPC reforms and the 2030 compliance targets, we are seeing a record demand for energy assessments. We offer our assessors steady, reliable work with a professional back-office team that handles the admin so you can focus on the inspection. If you value flexible scheduling, competitive rates, and a well-organised workflow, we would love to hear from you. Join a forward-thinking company that supports your professional growth in the energy sector.
We provide EICRs and property certification in the following locations:
First Certify provides compliance certification for landlords and agents across the UK.
Contact us if your area is not listed.
