If you’re selling your home, you might be wondering whether you need an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report). Unlike landlords, homeowners aren’t legally required to have one to sell — but it’s often a good idea. Here’s what you need to know.
Is an EICR legally required to sell a house?
No. There’s no law requiring a homeowner to provide an EICR when selling. Landlords must have a valid EICR for rented properties, but for an ordinary sale it isn’t a legal requirement.
Why buyers and solicitors often ask for one
Even though it isn’t compulsory, an EICR is increasingly requested during conveyancing. A buyer’s solicitor may ask whether the electrics have been tested, a survey may recommend one, and mortgage lenders sometimes want reassurance that the installation is safe.
The benefits of having an EICR when selling
- It reassures buyers and can speed up the sale.
- It avoids last-minute renegotiation over electrical concerns.
- It lets you fix any issues on your terms, not under pressure.
- Combined with a recent consumer unit, it’s a genuine selling point.
What if I’ve had electrical work done?
If you’ve had notifiable work carried out — a new consumer unit, a rewire, a new circuit — you should have the certificates. Buyers’ solicitors frequently ask for these; if you can’t find them, an EICR is a good way to show the installation is safe.
Getting an EICR before you sell
An EICR is a fixed-price, non-invasive inspection. Ours start from £165 + VAT with a fast turnaround and same-day certificate issue available (+£40) — ideal when you’re working to a sale timeline.
Common questions
No. Homeowners are not legally required to have an EICR to sell. It’s a legal requirement for landlords of rented property, but for a normal house sale it’s optional — though often requested by buyers or solicitors.
For owner-occupied homes an EICR is recommended every 10 years, or when buying or selling. For rented homes it’s a maximum of 5 years.
In most cases we can inspect and issue your certificate quickly (same-day certificate issue +£40 if you need it), so it won’t hold up your sale. EICRs start from £165 + VAT.
Selling your home?
Get a fast, fixed-price EICR from £165 + VAT — often same-day, so it won’t hold up your sale.
Call 020 7473 7807