There seems to be some confusion as to whether you need a valid EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) – also referred to as an electrical safety certificate or a fixed wire test – in order to sell your property.
The good news is that it’s not essential to have an EICR in order to sell your house or flat, but it can help to reassure purchasers that everything regarding the electrics is in order. This applies particularly if your property is older and has long-established electrical circuits. There is of course a chance that a prospective buyer might ask to see your EICR prior to making an offer, and they can potentially request that an EICR is carried out before completion. In general, however, the onus is on the buyer to take the lead when it comes to an EICR and they will normally bear the cost of this and any resulting remedial work, but this may be subject to negotiation.
Since an EICR is not a legal requirement to complete your sale, you are within your rights to sell even if your EICR deems the electrical circuit(s) to be unsatisfactory. It’s worth remembering, though, that your purchaser may well seek a reduction in price should this be the case.
And if you decide to have any electrical upgrades carried out prior to selling, such as a new consumer unit or a complete rewire, the electrician will carry out an EIC as part of the project.
When it comes to rental properties, landlords are legally required to have an EICR done every five years. Should they wish to sell the property at any time, there will most likely be a valid EICR in place at that point, given their regulatory responsibilities.
At MS Electrical we offer fixed wire testing and EICRs in Cambridge. To request a no-obligation quotation please call us on 01223 850301 or complete our enquiry form.