Mustafa Bilgic
Mustafa Bilgic · UK Property & Tax · Reviewed

Last updated: July 2026

How much does an EICR cost?

An EICR – Electrical Installation Condition Report – is a safety inspection of a property’s fixed wiring, sockets and consumer unit. The cost is driven mainly by the number of circuits the electrician has to test, which tracks the size of the property, so a small flat sits around £120–£200 while a large house can reach £400. This calculator gives an indicative price for your property and flags the legal requirement if you are a landlord, where an out-of-date EICR can lead to a fine of up to £30,000. It sizes the cost; it is not a quote.

What you need to know

Worked example

A landlord needs an EICR for a 3-bed rented house and adds PAT testing. The inspection is around £150–£250 and PAT adds £50–£100, for a typical total of roughly £200–£350. Because it is a rented property, the landlord must renew the certificate at least every five years and keep it available for the council and tenants – missing it risks a penalty far larger than the inspection fee.

Frequently asked questions

How much does an EICR cost?

An EICR typically costs between about £120 for a small flat and £400 for a large house in the UK, priced mainly by the number of circuits (fuse ways) the electrician has to test. Prices vary by area and by how busy the local market is.

Is an EICR a legal requirement for landlords?

Yes. In England, the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector Regulations 2020 require private landlords to have a valid EICR and renew it at least every five years. Local councils can issue a financial penalty of up to £30,000 for non-compliance.

How often does an EICR need renewing?

For rented homes in England an EICR must be renewed at least every five years, or sooner if the report recommends it. Owner-occupiers are advised to have one about every ten years, and sooner when buying a home or after major electrical work.

What makes an EICR more expensive?

The biggest factor is the number of circuits in the consumer unit – a larger home with more fuse ways takes longer to test. Older wiring, difficult access, and having remedial works quoted at the same time can also add to the cost.

What happens if my EICR is unsatisfactory?

If a report is coded C1, C2 or FI it is classed as unsatisfactory and remedial work is needed – usually within 28 days for a rented property. The remedial work is charged separately from the inspection, so budget for possible repairs on older installations.

Is an EICR the same as a PAT test?

No. An EICR inspects the fixed wiring and consumer unit of the property, while PAT (portable appliance testing) checks plug-in appliances such as kettles and lamps. Landlords often arrange both, but they are separate checks with separate costs.

Cost figures are indicative UK market ranges for 2026 and vary by area and installation – they are not a quote. The landlord requirement and £30,000 penalty come from the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020; see GOV.UK – Electrical safety standards guidance.

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