How Long Does an EICR Last?
An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a safety check for a building’s electrical system. Think of it like a health check-up for your home or business wiring—making sure everything’s safe and working properly.
Why Does It Matter How Long It Lasts?
Knowing how long an EICR is valid helps you stay safe, follow the rules, and avoid unexpected fines or insurance issues.
Knowing when your EICR runs out helps you to manage your compliance and also keep you covered.
Insurances would be the first to pick up if your EICR was out of date and refuse a payout which could end up costing your business a huge amount of money.
Safety: Over time, electrics can wear out. A valid EICR ensures a trained electrician has checked everything.
Legal and Compliance: Landlords must follow UK electrical safety laws and sometimes insurance companies require up-to-date inspections too.
Peace of Mind: It’s good to know your building is safe—no surprises.
How long does an EICR last : The 5-Year Rule
For most buildings, the EICR is valid for five years—or until the next stated inspection date on the report.
UK regulations say landlords must have properties inspected at least every five years.
In Northern Ireland, landlords must do the same every five years or sooner if needed.
- 5 years is the minimum standard for landlords and commercial building owners but there are other properties that benefit from more frequent inspections which we list below in a handy table.
But, There Can Be Shorter Periods
Sometimes an EICR is valid for less than five years:
Different Building Types, Different Durations
| Building Type & Situation | Typical EICR Validity |
|---|---|
| Domestic owner-occupied homes | Every 10 years (some follow 5) |
| Private rental properties (landlords) | Every 5 years (legally required) |
| Commercial units (offices, shops, warehouses) | Every 5 years or shorter if flagged |
| Farms, factories, leisure sites | Every 3 years in riskier conditions |
| High-risk areas (pools, medical facilities) | Annually or as needed |
The most common interval is 5 years, but the exact timing should be listed on the EICR you receive.
What Does Your EICR Report Say?
The EICR will include:
The date of inspection
The recommended date for the next one
Whether any problems (like C1, C2) were found that require urgent attention.
That recommendation should always be followed—even if it’s not exactly five years away.
What If You Don’t Know When Your EICR Expires?
Here’s how to check:
Look at the certificate—it will say the inspection date and ‘next inspection due’ date.
Ask your electrician—they keep records and can clarify.
Check your tenancy agreement—many landlords reset EICRs at each new lease start.
Err on the safe side—if you’re unsure, it’s better to schedule another one early.
FAQs About EICR Duration
Q: Is 5 years always the minimum?
A: Yes, 5 years is the legal minimum for most private rental properties in England —but it can be shorter if the inspector states so.
Q: Can an EICR last longer than 5 years?
A: No—5 years is the maximum interval under current UK regulations.
Q: Why might my EICR be valid for less time?
A: The electrician may set a shorter timeframe if they spot concerns like old wiring or outdated consumer units.
Q: What if I ignore the EICR date?
A: You put safety at risk, and insurance or legal compliance could be invalidated.
Bottom Line
Call an electrician if your unsure about the validity or timescale you should be checking your property. A qualified electrician will be able to guide you on how often you should be checking your property. At Countrywide Electrical Testing Ltd, we pride ourselves on being experts in testing and compliance and for a no obligation quote you can get in contact with us by using the contact form at the bottom of this page.Â
The key points to remember for how long does an EICR last are;
5 years is the standard validity for most properties.
Special buildings or safety issues may require shorter intervals.
Always follow the expiry date written on the EICR report—not just the rule of thumb.
Keeping EICRs up to date keeps you safe, legal, and stress-free.