🧾 How Often Should an EICR Be Done? (2025 South Coast Guide)

If you’re a homeowner, landlord, or business owner across Southampton, Portsmouth, Chichester, Bournemouth and the wider South Coast, you’ve probably heard of an EICR — the Electrical Installation Condition Report.

One of the most common questions we get at Shiny Spark Electrical is:

“How often do I actually need one?”

Here’s the clear answer — without the confusion.

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📚 Contents

• ⚙️ What Is an EICR?
• ⭐ Quick Answer: How Often Is an EICR Needed?
• 📆 EICR Frequency by Property Type (South Coast Focus)
• 📍 Why Frequency Matters
• 🧰 How to Know If You’re Due an EICR
• ⚡ Shiny Spark Electrical – Local EICR Specialists
• 🕒 When to Book
• 🧩 Key Takeaway

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⚙️ What Is an EICR?

An EICR is a professional inspection of your property’s fixed wiring, sockets, consumer unit and protective devices. It checks that your electrical installation meets current safety standards under BS 7671 (18th Edition Wiring Regulations).

The test identifies:

• Faults that could cause electric shock or fire (C1, C2, C3 and FI codes)
• Outdated wiring, poor connections or insufficient earthing
• General wear and tear that develops over time

It’s not just a piece of paper — it’s proof your electrical system is safe and compliant.

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⭐ Quick Answer: How Often Is an EICR Needed?

Here are the commonly recommended intervals:

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📆 EICR Frequency by Property Type (South Coast Focus)

Homeowners (Owner-Occupied) – Every 10 Years

If you live in the property yourself, an EICR is typically recommended every 10 years, or sooner if:

• The property is older (pre-1960s wiring or visible age to accessories)
• You’re planning to sell or remortgage
• You’ve had water leaks, fire damage or major electrical issues
• You’re adding new circuits or a large extension

Rental Properties – Every 5 Years (Legal Requirement)

All landlords must have an EICR carried out at least every 5 years under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector Regulations 2020. You must:

• Provide the report to new tenants before they move in
• Give a copy to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection
• Provide a copy to the council if requested
• Complete any C1, C2 or FI remedial works within 28 days (or sooner if specified)

HMOs – Every 5 Years (Strictly Enforced)

HMOs across Portsmouth, Southampton, Bournemouth and Chichester are closely monitored by local councils. An up-to-date EICR every 5 years is essential for your licence and for tenant safety, especially where:

• Circuits are heavily loaded with heaters, kettles and cooking appliances
• There have been DIY alterations over the years
• Multiple tenants use the same sockets and extension leads

Commercial & Industrial – Every 3–5 Years

Shops, offices, warehouses and industrial units generally require EICRs every 3–5 years, depending on the type of business and electrical load. Public-facing premises and heavy-use industrial sites lean towards the more frequent end.

Caravans, Mobile Homes & Holiday Lets – Every 3 Years

Due to lighter construction, weather exposure and seasonal use, caravans and mobile homes should be inspected at least every 3 years. Holiday lets must also meet landlord electrical safety duties.

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📍 Why Frequency Matters

Over time, even good installations deteriorate — insulation breaks down, protective devices wear, and loads increase as new equipment is added. On the South Coast in particular, coastal air, older housing stock and high rental turnover can accelerate wear and tear.

By keeping your EICR up to date, you:

• Protect against electric shock and electrical fire
• Avoid insurance or compliance issues if something goes wrong
• Maintain tenant safety, legal peace of mind and smoother property sales

Failing to keep up with your testing schedule can lead to fines (for landlords) and may invalidate insurance if an incident occurs.

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🧰 How to Know If You’re Due an EICR

You’re likely due an EICR if:

• You can’t find a valid certificate dated within the last 5–10 years
• You’ve moved into a new home or started a new tenancy
• Lights flicker, fuses blow, or your RCD / MCB trips often
• Your consumer unit looks old (rewireable fuse wire or very dated design)
• You know previous owners carried out DIY electrical work

Still unsure? Contact Shiny Spark Electrical and we’ll advise whether testing is due — free of charge.

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⚡ Shiny Spark Electrical – Local EICR Specialists

We offer transparent, region-based pricing across Hampshire and West Sussex, including Southampton, Portsmouth, Chichester, Bournemouth and surrounding areas:

Prices are indicative and may vary depending on circuit count, condition and accessibility.

All inspections are carried out by qualified 18th Edition electricians, certified in City & Guilds 2391 (Initial & Periodic Testing), and fully insured.

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🕒 When to Book

✅ Every 5–10 years depending on property type
✅ After electrical upgrades, extensions, or damage
✅ Before buying or renting out a property
✅ If you notice tripping, burning smells or visible damage

👉 Book your EICR with Shiny Spark Electrical – serving Southampton, Portsmouth, Chichester & Bournemouth.

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🧩 Key Takeaway

Electrical safety isn’t a one-time check — it’s ongoing maintenance for peace of mind. A timely EICR keeps your property safe, compliant and ready for whatever life throws at it, whether you’re living there, renting it out or running a business on the South Coast.

For help understanding report results, read our EICR code meanings guide.

Price comparisons and national averages are in our EICR cost comparison guide.

For a complete breakdown of electrical safety testing in 2025, see the main EICR guide.

🔗 Related EICR Guides

• UK-Wide EICR Frequency Rules
• South Coast Landlord Requirements
• EICR Duration Guide
• EICR Cost Guide (UK)