Electrical Safety Regulations in the Private Rented Sector: A Guide for Electricians
Electrical Safety Regulations in the Private Rented Sector: A Guide for Electricians
As electricians, we don’t just wire up circuits and fix faults — we’re at the front line of compliance, especially when it comes to rental properties. Since the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 came into force, we’ve seen a surge in demand for Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) — but also plenty of confusion.
This post clears up the expectations for electricians working in the private rented sector, covering everything from coding to compliance, and answering the most common questions we hear on the tools.
So What Do These Regulations Actually Require?
Since July 2020, landlords in England must:
- Have their property’s electrical installation inspected and tested every 5 years (or sooner if required by the previous report).
- Use a qualified and competent electrician to carry out the inspection.
- Provide the EICR to:
- Existing tenants (within 28 days)
- New tenants (before occupation)
- Local authorities (within 7 days if requested)
- Complete remedial work for C1, C2, or FI observations within 28 days, and provide written confirmation of completion.
It’s the electrician’s job to provide a clear, well-coded EICR and, if needed, carry out or advise on remedial work.
🔧 Electricians’ Top 8 Questions About the PRS Regulations
1. Do I have to be part of a competent person scheme to carry out EICRs?
Not strictly, but you must be qualified and competent. Many electricians join a CPS (like NAPIT or NICEIC) to demonstrate this more easily. Landlords are legally required to use someone competent, and most will expect scheme membership.
2. What exactly counts as “further investigation” (FI), and how should I record it?
FI means you’ve identified something you can’t fully verify without more time or access. For example: missing CPCs in a lighting circuit where only a few fittings were tested. Record it clearly, state why it needs checking, and be specific.
3. Should I isolate a circuit if I find a C1?
Yes. A C1 is “danger present” and requires immediate action. You should isolate the affected circuit, inform the landlord (preferably in writing), and include this action in your report.
4. Can I carry out remedial work on a property I’ve inspected?
Yes, unless your company policy says otherwise. There’s no regulation preventing it. Just ensure there’s transparency and a clear separation between inspection and pricing to avoid conflict of interest claims.
5. How should I handle landlords asking to downgrade a C2 to a C3?
Don’t. Stand your ground. The codes exist for safety. A C2 is potentially dangerous, and downgrading it could leave you liable if something goes wrong. Explain your reasoning and back it up with BS 7671 or GN3 references.
6. Should I issue a new EICR after remedial work is completed?
No, not unless a full re-inspection is carried out. Instead, issue an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) or Minor Works Certificate, depending on the scope of the remedial work. Include this with the original EICR to demonstrate compliance.
7. How much detail should I include in the written confirmation of completed remedial work?
State:
- What was fixed
- When it was done
- Which certificate supports it
- That the installation is now safe and compliant
This should be sent to the landlord and, if applicable, the local authority.
8. Do I need to keep my own records of EICRs and remedial work?
Yes. GN3 recommends keeping copies for at least 5 years, both for accountability and in case of disputes. A digital record system is ideal — scan, store, and back it up.
📊 Best Practices for EICRs in Rental Properties
- Code fairly but firmly: Don’t be harsh, but don’t sugar-coat either. Safety first.
- Use clear, legible descriptions: Landlords and authorities read these too.
- Quote regulation numbers or GN3 references when defending your codes.
- Label and photograph clearly when faults are found.
- Discuss findings with the landlord in plain terms, and always follow up in writing.
✅ Final Word: It’s About Safety, Not Just Paperwork
The EICR process isn’t just a box-ticking exercise — it’s a real opportunity to improve safety in homes people live in every day. By understanding the regulations and working to a high standard, you’re not just complying — you’re protecting people.
Need to brush up on GN3 or want a checklist for your next inspection? Drop a comment or subscribe for updates — we’re building a community of electricians who put safety first.
