Electrical Installation Condition Reports

Reliable EICR Testing Across London for Landlords, Homeowners & Businesses

Get a clear picture of your property's electrical condition with a professional check of the fixed wiring, consumer unit, circuits, earthing arrangements and protective devices. Benjamin Services provides a straightforward digital Electrical Installation Condition Report with test results, classification codes and practical advice on any work that may be needed.

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Why an EICR Matters FAQs
⚡ Clear EICR Guidance for London Properties

EICR Inspections in London: What We Check and What the Results Mean

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) gives you a clear picture of a property’s fixed electrical system, including the consumer unit, circuits, earthing arrangements and protective devices. The completed report helps landlords, homeowners, buyers and businesses understand the condition of the installation and see whether any further work needs attention.

Flexible appointments across London A clear digital report Practical, straightforward advice
Your EICR at a glance
Inspection Fixed wiring and electrical safety measures
Outcome A satisfactory or unsatisfactory result
Report Test results, observations and clear guidance

Portable appliance testing is separate from an EICR and can be arranged as an additional service.

01 The Basics

What Is an EICR?

An EICR is a structured electrical safety report that records the condition of the fixed installation in an existing property.

  • Highlights defects, deterioration and potential safety concerns
  • Records the inspection limits, test findings and observations
  • Recommends when the next inspection should take place
02 Who It Helps

Who May Need an EICR?

  • Landlords: supporting their electrical safety responsibilities
  • Homeowners: checking older, altered or unfamiliar electrical systems
  • Buyers & sellers: understanding the installation before a property transaction
  • Businesses: supporting maintenance planning and compliance
03 What You Receive

What Will Your Report Include?

  • A clearly stated satisfactory or unsatisfactory outcome
  • Inspection schedules and recorded electrical test results
  • Any relevant C1, C2, C3 or FI classification codes
  • Clear guidance where further action may be needed
Inspection scope

What Does an EICR Inspection Cover?

We inspect the accessible parts of the fixed electrical installation within the agreed scope.

01

Consumer Unit

The condition of the board, circuit labels and installed protective devices.

02

Circuits & Wiring

Continuity, insulation resistance, polarity and any visible signs of deterioration.

03

Sockets & Switches

Accessible sockets, switches and other fixed electrical accessories.

04

Earthing & Bonding

Earthing and bonding arrangements that help reduce the risk of electric shock.

05

RCD Protection

The operation and suitability of relevant residual-current devices.

06

Damage & Risks

Signs of overheating, overloading, damage or unsafe electrical alterations.

For Private and Social Rented Properties in England

What Landlords Need to Know About EICRs

Keep the report and inspection date on record, and follow the recommended date for the next inspection.

5 years

Regular Inspection

Usually at least once every five years, unless the report recommends an earlier inspection.

28 days

Share the Report

Give existing tenants a copy of the report within the required 28-day period.

28 days

Arrange Required Work

Complete any required work sooner when the report gives a shorter timeframe.

General guidance for England. Read the official guidance .

Inspection limitations

What Isn’t Included in a Standard EICR?

An EICR focuses on the accessible parts of the fixed electrical installation. It does not normally include opening walls or ceilings, testing portable appliances, or completing repairs during the inspection.

  • Hidden cables are not exposed during a standard inspection
  • Walls, floors and ceilings are not opened unless agreed in advance
  • Portable appliances require a separate PAT testing service
  • Repairs and remedial work are quoted separately
  • Any inaccessible areas are recorded as limitations
  • Specialist systems may require a separate assessment
What to expect

A Clear Four-Step Inspection Process

A straightforward visit with careful inspection and detailed electrical testing.

  1. 01

    Confirm the Details

    We confirm the property details, access arrangements and the agreed inspection scope.

  2. 02

    Visual Inspection

    We check for visible defects, damage, labelling problems and existing safety measures.

  3. 03

    Circuit Testing

    We use calibrated instruments to test circuits and protective devices.

  4. 04

    Report and Recommendations

    You receive the test results, classification codes and clear recommendations.

Before we arrive

How to Prepare Your Property for an EICR

A little preparation helps us work safely and keeps unnecessary delays to a minimum.

  • Make sure the consumer unit is easy to access
  • Clear access to sockets, switches and other electrical points
  • Plan a safe shutdown for sensitive equipment where needed
  • Let tenants know there may be short interruptions to the power
  • Keep previous EICRs or electrical certificates available
  • Tell us about alarms, medical devices or equipment that must stay powered
Understanding your report

What the Classification Codes on Your EICR Mean

On the current report format, C1 and C2 observations determine whether the installation is rated satisfactory or unsatisfactory. An FI code also needs attention, and regulated rented properties must complete any necessary further investigation within the relevant legal timeframe.

C1

Immediate Danger

There is an immediate danger that needs attention straight away.

C2

Potential Danger

Remedial work should be arranged as a priority.

FI

Further Investigation

Further investigation is needed to understand the issue.

C3

Improvement Recommended

An improvement is recommended to raise the level of safety.

Your next steps

What Happens After an Unsatisfactory EICR?

An unsatisfactory result means one or more electrical safety concerns need attention. Keep the original report while the listed observations are investigated, quoted and put right.

C1

Make Safe Immediately

Any C1 danger should be isolated, made safe or corrected immediately.

C2

Prioritise Remedial Work

C2 observations should be dealt with as a priority.

FI

Further Investigation

FI observations need further investigation before the issue can be properly assessed.

£

Written Remedial Quote

We price remedial work separately and agree the cost before anything begins.

Evidence of Completion

Relevant certification or written confirmation provides a record of the completed work.

Retain the Original Report

Keep the original EICR with the property’s other electrical records.

Straightforward package pricing

Residential EICR Prices in London

The package prices below are guides until we confirm the property type, number of circuits and consumer-unit details in writing.

Studio / Bedsit
£99
Guide price
  • Up to 6 circuits
  • 1 consumer unit
  • Digital report in 24–48 hours
Check Availability
3–4 Bedrooms
£159
Guide price
  • Up to 12 circuits
  • 1 consumer unit
  • Digital report in 24–48 hours
Check Availability
5–6 Bedrooms
From £199
Final price agreed before booking
  • Up to 16 circuits
  • 1 consumer unit
  • Digital report in 24–48 hours
Get a Confirmed Quote
Commercial & HMO EICR — From £199 The price depends on the number of circuits and consumer units, site access and the complexity of the installation. Request a Quote
Included Inspection, electrical testing and a digital EICR report.
Additional items Additional circuits start from £15 each, with extra consumer units from £45.
Not included Repairs, remedial work and replacement components.
VAT status & travel costs Benjamin Services is not currently VAT registered, so no VAT is added to the prices shown.

The prices shown are guides. We confirm the final amount after reviewing the property details, access arrangements and the number of circuits and consumer units. We discuss any extra work with you before going ahead. Benjamin Services does not currently add VAT to these prices.

Professional EICR inspections across London

Clear Inspection. Clear Report. Clear Next Steps.

For an accurate quote, send us the postcode, property type, number of bedrooms, number of consumer units and estimated circuits.

Why an EICR Matters for Your Property

Electrical Problems an EICR Can Catch Early

An EICR checks your fixed wiring, consumer unit and protective devices, helping uncover electrical safety, fire and compliance risks before they turn into bigger problems.

Watch for these warning signs: repeated tripping, flickering lights, hot sockets, scorch marks, buzzing or burning smells all need prompt attention from a qualified electrician.

Personal safety Electric Shock and Burn Risks

Electrical faults can expose residents, tenants, employees and visitors to electric shock, burns or accidental contact with live parts.

  • Damaged insulation or exposed conductors can leave people vulnerable to electric shock and serious electrical burns.
  • Inadequate earthing or bonding may stop fault current from being carried safely away from the installation.
  • RCDs and circuit breakers are tested to make sure the right fault protection is in place and working as it should.
Fire prevention Fire and Overheating Risks

Heat can build up behind sockets, connections and consumer units long before visible damage appears or a more serious incident occurs.

  • Loose electrical connections can create resistance, excessive heat and burning around the terminals.
  • Overloaded or poorly protected circuits can overheat when the electrical demand goes beyond their safe capacity.
  • Hot sockets, scorch marks and burning smells are warning signs that need urgent investigation.
Hidden condition Ageing or Altered Wiring

A property may look perfectly safe while faults are developing behind walls, above ceilings, inside electrical accessories or within the consumer unit.

  • Cables, connections and accessories can deteriorate through age, heat, everyday wear, damage or changing environmental conditions.
  • Extensions and converted rooms can place extra demand on circuits that were never designed for how the space is now being used.
  • DIY work or earlier alterations may leave behind loose connections, incorrect protection or unsuitable wiring arrangements.
Property and compliance Compliance and Avoidable Repair Costs

Finding problems early gives landlords, homeowners, managing agents and businesses time to plan remedial work before faults become urgent, disruptive or more expensive.

  • Most rented homes in England need an electrical inspection at least every five years, with any required work completed within the stated timescale.
  • Homeowners, buyers and property managers get clearer information to support maintenance, budgeting and confident property decisions.
  • Businesses and commercial properties can lower the risk of unexpected power cuts, emergency repairs and costly disruption to day-to-day operations.

Safety guidance is based on information from London Fire Brigade , NICEIC and GOV.UK landlord guidance .

Clear, Professional Electrical Testing

Thorough EICR Inspections Across London

Benjamin Services carries out professional EICR inspections for landlords, homeowners, managing agents and businesses across London, helping you understand the condition and safety of your property’s electrical installation.

Detailed Electrical Checks

Careful inspection of fixed wiring, circuits, earthing arrangements and the consumer unit.

Clear Digital Reporting

An easy-to-follow report with test results, classification codes and clear findings.

Practical Recommendations

Straightforward advice about any remedial electrical work that may be required.

Professional London Service

Reliable electrical testing for residential, rental and commercial properties.

Benjamin Services EICR Guidance

EICR Questions, Answered Clearly

Clear answers about EICR pricing, inspection time, temporary power interruptions, report codes, landlord responsibilities and remedial work across London.

Classification wording updated for BS 7671:2018+A4:2026

The current model form states that C1 and C2 affect the overall assessment, while C3 and FI are advisory. Separate legal duties can still require landlords to complete further investigation.

01 How much does an EICR cost in London?

Residential EICR packages currently start at £99 for a studio or bedsit, £129 for a one- or two-bedroom property, £159 for three or four bedrooms, and from £199 for larger homes. The final price is confirmed after checking circuit count, consumer units, access, parking and Congestion Charge requirements. Commercial and HMO properties are quoted separately. Remedial work is not included, and any applicable VAT or additional charges are shown before booking.

02 How long does an EICR inspection take?

A typical residential EICR takes around one to three hours, but larger, older or more complex installations can take longer. The duration depends on the number of circuits and consumer units, access to electrical points, previous alterations and whether faults are discovered during testing. Commercial and HMO inspections usually require more time. We confirm the likely appointment length after reviewing the property details and agreed inspection scope.

03 Will the electricity need to be switched off during an EICR?

Yes, short power interruptions are normally required because several EICR tests must be carried out on isolated circuits. The electrician will explain when supplies need to be switched off and will try to minimise disruption. Sensitive equipment, computers, alarms and appliances should be shut down safely beforehand. If continuous power is essential for medical, business or security reasons, tell us before the appointment so the inspection can be planned appropriately.

04 What does an EICR inspection check?

An EICR checks the accessible and agreed parts of the fixed electrical installation, including consumer units, circuits, fixed wiring, sockets, switches, light fittings, earthing, bonding, RCDs and other protective devices. Testing may cover continuity, insulation resistance, polarity, earth-fault loop impedance and RCD operation. Concealed cables and inaccessible areas are not automatically opened up; the report records the inspection extent, agreed limitations and any items that could not be verified.

05 What do C1, C2, C3 and FI mean on an EICR in 2026?

Under the current BS 7671:2018+A4:2026 model form, C1 means danger is present and immediate remedial action is necessary. C2 identifies a potentially dangerous condition requiring urgent action. C3 means improvement is recommended, while FI means further investigation is advised. These codes help prioritise the findings: C1 and C2 affect the overall assessment, whereas C3 and FI provide important advisory information about improvements or checks still needed.

06 Does an FI code make an EICR unsatisfactory?

No. An FI observation does not by itself make the model EICR form unsatisfactory. It means the inspector could not confirm the safety or condition of a specific part of the installation without additional investigation. FI should still be treated seriously. For regulated rented homes in England, any further investigation required by the report must generally be completed within 28 days, or sooner where the report states a shorter deadline.

07 What happens if an EICR is unsatisfactory?

An unsatisfactory EICR means safety-related work is required before the installation can be treated as satisfactory. The next step is to obtain a clear remedial quotation, complete the necessary work and keep evidence that each observation has been addressed. Depending on the repair, this may include an Electrical Installation Certificate, Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate or written remedial confirmation. The original EICR remains part of the property’s electrical safety record.

08 Is remedial work included in the EICR price?

No. EICR remedial work is normally priced separately from the inspection and report. The EICR identifies and classifies observations; it does not automatically authorise repairs, replacement parts or further investigation. Where action is required, Benjamin Services can provide a separate quotation explaining the work and cost before proceeding. For landlords in England, required remedial or investigative work must usually be completed within 28 days, or within any shorter period stated in the report.

09 When will I receive the EICR report?

Digital EICR reports are normally issued within 24 to 48 hours after the inspection, provided the test schedules and observations can be completed without additional investigation. More complex commercial, HMO or multi-board installations may take longer. If a C1 danger is found, the person ordering the report should be informed without delay rather than waiting for the final document. The completed report includes the overall assessment, observations, classification codes, test results and recommended next-inspection date.

10 How often do landlords need an EICR in England?

For most rented homes in England, the electrical installation must be inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years, or sooner if the report specifies an earlier date. The existing tenant must receive the report within 28 days, and a new tenant must receive it before occupation. Required remedial or further investigative work must generally be completed within 28 days, or within any shorter period stated in the report.

11 Is a new EICR required every time the tenant changes?

Usually not. If the existing inspection was completed within the required interval, the report remains current and it does not require further investigative or remedial work, a new EICR is generally not needed for every change of tenant in England. The landlord must give the new tenant a copy before occupation. A fresh inspection may still be sensible if the installation has been altered, damaged or gives reason to believe it is no longer safe.

12 Is an EICR the same as PAT testing?

No. An EICR assesses the fixed electrical installation, such as wiring, consumer units, circuits, sockets, switches, earthing and protective devices. PAT or in-service equipment testing concerns portable or supplied electrical equipment and is a separate process. One does not replace the other. The correct combination depends on the property, the equipment provided, the type of occupancy and any landlord or workplace responsibilities that apply to the premises.

13 What information is needed for an EICR quote?

To confirm the correct EICR package, provide the property postcode, property type, number of bedrooms, number of consumer units or distribution boards and an estimated circuit count if known. Also mention HMO or commercial use, restricted access, parking controls, the Congestion Charge Zone and any need to maintain essential power. These details help us confirm whether a package price applies or whether a tailored fixed quotation is required before booking.

14 How should I prepare the property for an EICR?

Before the appointment, make sure the electrician can reach the consumer unit, sockets, switches and other agreed electrical points. Safely shut down computers, alarms and sensitive equipment that may be affected by temporary power interruptions. Provide any previous EICRs or electrical certificates if available, inform tenants or occupants about the visit, and tell the electrician in advance about medical equipment, essential power supplies or restricted-access areas.

Technical wording follows the IET BS 7671:2018+A4:2026 model EICR form . Landlord timelines refer to current GOV.UK guidance for England .

Need an EICR Quote for Your Property?

Send the property postcode, property type, bedroom count, consumer-unit count and estimated circuit count so Benjamin Services can confirm the most suitable package or fixed quotation.