Landlord electrical safety regulations in the UK

Every part of the UK now requires private landlords to have the fixed electrical installation inspected and tested at least every five years by a qualified person. The duties around sharing the report and completing remedial work are similar, but the legislation and penalties differ.

England

The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020. Landlords must have the installation inspected and tested at least every five years, give the report to existing tenants within 28 days and to the council within 7 days of a request, and finish remedial work within 28 days. Councils can impose financial penalties of up to £30,000.

Scotland

The Repairing Standard (Housing (Scotland) Act 2006). Private landlords need an EICR at least every five years, and portable appliances they supply must be PAT tested. Both are checked if a tenant applies to the First-tier Tribunal.

Wales

Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 and the Fitness for Human Habitation Regulations 2022. Landlords must have an EICR carried out at least every five years and give the contract-holder a copy. A home without a valid report is treated as unfit for human habitation.

Northern Ireland

The Electrical Safety Standards for Private Tenancies Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2024. Inspection at least every five years, for tenancies granted from 1 April 2025 and for earlier tenancies from 1 December 2025. Remedial work must be completed within 28 days, and councils can prosecute or issue fixed penalties.

Common duties across the UK

• Use a qualified and competent inspector
• Get a written report showing the results and the date of the next inspection
• Give tenants a copy and keep one for the next inspector
• Complete remedial or investigative work within the deadline
• Deal with any electrical fault reported between inspections

This guide is a summary for landlords and does not replace legal advice. Check your local council's guidance for HMO licence conditions.