How much does a landlord electrical inspection cost?

As a landlord, it’s a legal requirement to keep your rental property electrically safe. Therefore, it’s important to understand the landlord electrical inspection cost as this is something that you will need to factor in.

In this guide, we’ll explain the landlord’s electrical safety check cost, highlight what affects the pricing, and explain landlord EICR requirements so you avoid hefty fines when renting out your property. We’ll also provide some practical budgeting tips and best practices for scheduling inspections to help you proactively maintain the property.

What is an EICR, and why is an EICR required?

An Electrical Installation Condition Report [EICR] is a detailed inspection of the electrical system inside the property. Landlords need to book a professional electrician to fulfil landlord EICR requirements. They will look for potential hazards caused by electrical faults, faulty wiring, or electrical work that is below par. There are trusted sites to help you find a registered electrician nearby.

An EICR is not optional, so it’s vital to understand landlord electrical inspection costs. It is a legal requirement in the United Kingdom, as stated in the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020. Landlords will need to arrange a new EICR every five years. It is also worth considering getting a new EICR when you have a new tenant or after major repairs/work have been carried out within the property. 

Landlords will need to provide their tenants with a copy of the EICR. The report will highlight any potential dangers or risks of injuries from electrical faults. This is an integral part of keeping your tenants safe. Failure to obtain an EICR or act on the recommendations in the EICR can result in a fine of up to £30,000.

How much do landlord electrical inspections cost? 

Typical landlord electrical inspection costs can vary depending on various factors. Here’s a snapshot of what to expect: 

• 1-2 bedroom property = £100 – 200
• 3-4 bedroom property = £150 – 250
• 5 bedroom property = £250 – £300

Factors influencing landlord electrical safety check costs

Many factors can influence landlord electrical inspection costs. 

Property size 

This one is self-explanatory. A bigger property means more work for the electrician and will take longer to complete. This is something to remember if you are considering what type of property to invest in.

Location 

This is another basic point, but it’s still worth considering. It will cost more to fulfil landlord EICR requirements in London than, for example, Bradford.

Age of the property

In some older properties, the electrical system can be more complex. This can increase the inspection time.

Electrician fees 

Rates can vary from electrician to electrician due to experience, demand and scheduling. However, it’s probably worth avoiding the cheapest to ensure you get a good-quality report. Checkatrade lists the expected rates for electricians to give you a ballpark figure.

Budgeting for landlord electrical inspection costs

Although a landlord’s EICR requirements are likely not the most expensive cost when renting property, you still might want to consider trying to make it cheaper. It’s best practice to compare at least three quotes from a range of qualified electricians. 

If you need to do other electrical work, you can bundle it together and ask for discounts. You might also be able to schedule the work to be completed during quieter times. These tips should help lower the overall landlord electrical safety check cost.

Regular, properly executed electrical checks are a key part of a proactive property maintenance strategy.Now that you understand how to control the landlord electrical inspection cost, you can plan ahead and feel better protected against electrical problems. However, unforeseen events and experiences can still unfold. 

Therefore, it’s important to protect your property and investment as much as possible with landlord insurance. To compare landlord insurance quotes, contact us at 01788 818 670 today to find out more, or get a quote online.