An Electrical Installation Condition Report must be acquired before the commencement of any new tenancy from 1st July 2020 or any tenancy renewal.
The checks ensure that all electrical installations in the property are safe before the tenant moves in.
EICR certification is for five years. When the current EICR expires, a new one will need to be obtained.
Landlords must supply a copy to each tenant within 28 days of the inspection. They must also retain a copy so that they can supply one to their local authority if requested.
Landlords must also supply a copy of the most recent report to any prospective tenant within 28 days of it being requested in writing.
EICR Deadline: 1st April 2021
From 1st April 2021, the above rules will apply to all tenancies, this includes all periodic tenancies no matter when the tenancy started.
That means that landlords must have an EICR performed for all their properties in England by this date. A copy of the report must then be served on the existing tenants within 28days and then serve the tenants with a copy of the report within 28 days.
When serving a copy of the EICR on tenants – makes sure you have evidence that they have received a copy.
Failure to comply with the above can result in a fine of up to £30,000.
