An EICR certificate usually takes 1 to 2 days to obtain if no faults are found. The inspection lasts 1 to 4 hours for most homes, and the report is issued within 24 to 48 hours. If remedial work is required, the process can take several days or longer, depending on the severity of the issues.
One of the most common questions landlords, homeowners, and business owners ask is how long it takes to get an EICR certificate. The answer is not always straightforward, as the timeline can vary depending on the type of property, its size, age, condition, and whether any electrical faults are discovered during the inspection.
An EICR, or Electrical Installation Condition Report, is a critical document that confirms whether a property’s fixed electrical installation is safe for continued use. Understanding how long the entire process takes, from booking the inspection to receiving the final report, helps property owners plan and avoid delays, especially when facing legal deadlines.
This detailed guide explains the full EICR timeline, what affects inspection duration, how quickly reports are issued, what happens if faults are found, and how to speed up the process while remaining compliant.
Before discussing timeframes, it is important to understand that getting an EICR certificate is not a single action. It is a process made up of several stages.
These stages include:
Each stage contributes to the overall time required to obtain a valid EICR certificate.
The inspection itself is the most time-consuming part of the process. The duration depends primarily on the property’s size and complexity.
Typical EICR Inspection Times
During the inspection, the electrician will examine consumer units, wiring, sockets, switches, lighting circuits, earthing, bonding, and safety devices such as RCDs.
Access to all areas of the property is essential. Obstructed consumer units, locked rooms, or inaccessible sockets can increase the inspection time.
Yes, the age of a property can significantly affect how long the inspection takes.
Older properties often require more detailed checks because:
Newer properties typically have simpler, more standardised installations, allowing inspections to be completed more quickly.
In many cases, the EICR report is issued on the same day as the inspection or within 24 to 48 hours.
The exact timing depends on:
Straightforward inspections with no major issues usually result in fast report delivery. More complex properties or those requiring additional testing may take slightly longer.
Professional providers such as First Landlord Certificates London LTD. typically issue reports promptly to help landlords meet compliance deadlines.
If the electrical installation is deemed satisfactory and contains no C1, C2, or FI codes, the process is quick and simple.
In this case:
From start to finish, this can take as little as one day, including inspection and documentation.
If the inspection identifies issues, the process will take longer.
Common reasons for failure include:
In these cases, the report will be marked unsatisfactory, and remedial work will be required before a compliant certificate can be issued.
The time required to complete remedial work depends on the severity and number of issues identified.
Typical repair timelines include:
Once repairs are completed, the electrician will either update the original report or issue written confirmation that the installation is now safe.
Only then is the EICR considered complete and valid.
When combining inspection, reporting, and any required repairs, the total time to get an EICR certificate can vary.
Typical timelines are:
Planning is essential, especially for landlords with legal obligations.
Yes, timing is critical for landlords.
In England, landlords must ensure:
Delays in obtaining an EICR certificate can lead to:
Booking inspections well in advance is always recommended.
Yes, an EICR can be carried out during a tenancy, but coordination is important.
Tenants must allow reasonable access, and inspections may involve temporary power shutdowns. Clear communication helps avoid delays and ensures the inspection runs smoothly.
If tenants restrict access, the inspection may take longer or require multiple visits.
While safety should never be rushed, there are practical steps that can reduce delays.
Preparation can significantly reduce inspection time and reporting delays.
In some cases, yes.
Same-day EICRs are possible when:
However, same-day service is not guaranteed, particularly for larger or older properties.
While speed is important, accuracy and safety are far more critical.
A rushed EICR may:
A thorough inspection protects lives, property, and legal standing.
Most EICR certificates are issued within 24 to 48 hours after inspection, provided no major faults are found.
Yes, small properties with no issues can often receive an EICR certificate on the same day.
Yes, if faults are found, repairs must be completed before the certificate can be finalised.
EICR inspections typically last between 1 and 4 hours for residential properties, depending on size and condition.
Yes, commercial EICRs often take longer due to larger systems and higher electrical demand.