As a landlord, ensuring the safety of your rental property isn’t just a moral responsibility—it’s a legal one.
One key aspect of this is complying with the regulations around Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs). If you own a rental property in Banbury or the surrounding areas, understanding your legal obligations—and knowing who to call for expert help—can save you both time and stress.
What is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is an official document produced after an assessment of a property’s electrical systems. The purpose is to evaluate whether the electrical installation is safe for continued use. The inspection checks everything from sockets and switches to fuseboards and wiring, ensuring that there are no hazards present that could pose a risk to tenants.
Legal Requirements for Landlords
As of July 1st, 2020, the law requires all landlords in England to have the electrical installations in their properties inspected and tested by a qualified electrician at least every five years. This legislation falls under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020.
The regulation applies to all new tenancies from July 1st, 2020, and was extended to include all existing tenancies from April 1st, 2021. Landlords must:
- Ensure the EICR is carried out by a qualified and competent person.
- Provide a copy of the report to existing tenants within 28 days.
- Provide a copy to new tenants before they move in.
- Keep a copy themselves until the next inspection is due.
- Carry out any remedial work flagged in the report within 28 days—or sooner if specified by the report.
Failing to comply can result in enforcement action and fines of up to £30,000.
Does Your Fuseboard Need an Upgrade?
One of the most common issues flagged during an EICR is an outdated fuseboard (also known as a consumer unit). Older fuseboards lack modern safety features like Residual Current Devices (RCDs), which are designed to cut off electricity in dangerous situations. If your fuseboard looks like the one in the photo attached—typically with rewireable fuses or lacking clear labelling—it may no longer meet current safety standards.
Upgrading your fuseboard isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your tenants from potential harm and reducing the risk of fire. A modern consumer unit significantly improves the overall safety of your electrical installation and can also give peace of mind to you and your letting agent.
Local Help in Banbury: L J Mullan Electrical
If you’re a landlord or letting agent in Banbury, L J Mullan Electrical is your trusted local electrician for EICRs. We specialise in electrical safety inspections for rental properties and have built a solid reputation for working closely with landlords and agents to ensure full compliance with legal obligations. At L J Mullan Electrical, we provide:
- Full EICRs carried out by fully qualified electricians.
- Clear, jargon-free reports.
- Competitive pricing for landlords and agencies managing multiple properties.
- Fuseboard upgrades, remedial work, and safety improvements when needed.
We understand that managing rental properties comes with its own set of challenges, and electrical compliance shouldn’t be a headache. Whether you need a one-off inspection or regular testing across a property portfolio, our team is ready to help.
Book Your EICR Today
Don’t wait for a safety issue—or a fine—to bring electrical compliance to your attention. Book your EICR with L J Mullan Electrical today and ensure your tenants are safe and your property meets all the latest regulations. Get in touch for a free quote or to find out more about our landlord services.
