For landlords with properties anywhere from Chatham to Canterbury, ensuring the safety of tenants is not just a moral obligation—it’s a critical legal requirement. The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 have set strict rules, and at the heart of these is the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).

If you’re a landlord in Kent, understanding your EICR obligations is crucial to protecting your tenants, your property, and avoiding hefty fines.

What Exactly is an EICR?

An EICR is a formal document produced after a comprehensive assessment of the electrical systems within a property. Think of it as an MOT for your wiring. A qualified and NICEIC registered electrician carries out inspections and tests to ensure everything is safe, compliant with the latest BS 7671 standards, and not at risk of causing electric shocks or fires.

Why is an EICR a Legal Requirement for Landlords?

The 2020 regulations mandate that all private landlords in England must:

Ensure electrical safety standards are met throughout the tenancy.
Have the electrical installation inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every five years.
Obtain an EICR and provide a copy to new and existing tenants.
Complete any necessary remedial work identified in the report within 28 days.

Local authorities can demand to see the certificate, and failure to comply can result in fines of up to £30,000.

What Does a Medway EICR Inspection Involve?

During an inspection at your Medway or Kent property, our electricians will check for:

Potential fire hazards or electric shock risks.
Any defective or poor-quality electrical work.
A lack of proper earthing or bonding.
The condition of the fuse box (consumer unit), wiring, and accessories.

The report will classify any identified issues, and the most serious (C1 or C2) must be fixed urgently.

Questions & Answers for Kent Landlords

Q: How long is my EICR valid for?
A: An EICR for a rental property is valid for five years from the date of issue.

Q: What happens if my report is ‘Unsatisfactory’?
A: You have 28 days to have a qualified electrician carry out the necessary repairs to make the installation safe.

Protect your tenants and your investment. If your rental property in Kent is due for an electrical inspection, contact Service Pro Ltd today to book a comprehensive EICR.