For Commercial Buildings (Offices, Retail, Industrial)
You are legally required to ensure your electrical systems are safe.
This falls under:
- The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
- The Health & Safety at Work Act 1974
An EICR is the recognised way of demonstrating compliance.
In practice:
- Most organisations carry out EICRs regularly
- Insurers and auditors often expect them
- Without one, it’s difficult to prove your systems are safe
For Residential Rental Properties (UK)
Yes — it is mandatory
Landlords must:
- Have a valid EICR at least every 5 years
- Provide it when required
Failure to comply can result in significant fines.
Why It Matters
Whether formally mandated or not, an EICR is essential for:
- Protecting occupants and staff
- Reducing fire and electrical risk
- Avoiding unexpected failures or downtime
- Meeting insurance and legal expectations
- Planning maintenance with confidence
Without a current EICR, you may be exposed to unnecessary operational and legal risk.
The Bottom Line
- EICR = the inspection and report
- “Fixed wiring inspection” = another name for the same process
- 5-year interval = typical guidance, not a universal rule
- Commercial properties: Expected as part of your duty of care
- Residential lettings: Legally required
