Do You Need an EICR Before Selling Your House?
An EICR is not a legal requirement when selling, but it can make or break a sale. Here's what buyers and sellers need to know.
An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is not a legal requirement when selling a home — but in practice, it can significantly affect whether a sale proceeds smoothly. Here is what buyers and sellers need to know.
Is an EICR legally required when selling?
No — unlike a gas safety certificate, there is no legal requirement for an EICR when selling an owner-occupied property. However, this does not mean you can ignore electrical safety during a sale.
Why buyers and solicitors ask for one
Buyers and their solicitors are increasingly requesting EICRs as part of the conveyancing process. A buyer who discovers electrical issues after exchange can use them to renegotiate the price or, in serious cases, withdraw from the sale. Having a current EICR removes this uncertainty.
What mortgage lenders require
Some mortgage lenders — particularly for older properties — will require evidence of a satisfactory EICR before releasing funds. If the property has an older installation, it is worth getting an EICR before listing to avoid delays at the point of exchange.
What if the EICR identifies issues?
If an EICR returns C1 or C2 codes, you have two options: carry out the remedial work before listing, or disclose the issues and adjust the asking price accordingly. Carrying out the work is almost always the better option — it removes a negotiating point for the buyer and demonstrates that the property has been properly maintained.
How old is too old?
An EICR is valid for up to 10 years for owner-occupied properties. However, if your existing EICR is more than 5 years old, a buyer or their solicitor may request a more recent one. If you are planning to sell in the next year or two, it is worth getting a fresh EICR now.
For landlords selling a tenanted property
If you are selling a property that is currently tenanted, you are already legally required to have a current EICR. Make sure it is up to date and that any remedial work has been completed and documented.
Brad Neil Electrical carries out EICR testing across Surrey. Call 07415 834215 to book — reports are typically available within 24 hours of the inspection.
Brad Neil
NICEIC Registered Domestic Installer · Brad Neil Electrical · Surrey
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