As a landlord, you’re legally responsible for arranging an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every 5 years. But what happens when your property is tenanted? Can you enter freely? What are the notice rules? And what if the tenant refuses?
This article explains your rights and responsibilities when it comes to accessing a tenanted property for an EICR inspection.
If you’re unsure what an EICR involves, start with our post: What to Expect During Your EICR Inspection.
Landlords Must Give Notice
Even though you own the property, your tenant has legal rights to privacy and quiet enjoyment under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. This means you must give them reasonable notice—typically 24 to 48 hours—before entering the property for inspections or maintenance.
We recommend giving at least 48 hours’ written notice for an EICR, along with a window of time when the electrician will arrive.
Tenants Cannot Refuse Without Reason
Your tenants cannot unreasonably refuse access if the visit is for legally required safety checks, like an EICR. That said, the visit must be scheduled at a mutually convenient time, and tenants should be kept informed in writing.
If a tenant refuses access repeatedly, you may need to serve formal notice or seek legal support. Document all attempts and communications for your records.
What to Include in Your Access Notice
When notifying your tenant about an EICR visit, be sure to include:
- Date and time of the appointment
- Name of the electrician or company (e.g. CIR Electrical Ltd)
- Expected duration (usually 2–4 hours)
- A polite explanation that the visit is a legal requirement
You can also link them to our guide on preparing for an EICR.
Do Tenants Need to Be Present?
No, tenants don’t need to be home, as long as access can be arranged legally through an agent, keyholder or landlord with consent. However, if tenants are home, we always work respectfully, explain our process, and keep disruption to a minimum.
What If the Tenant Doesn’t Cooperate?
If a tenant continually refuses access, document everything. Send written notices and keep copies. Let your letting agent know. If the issue persists, you may need legal advice or mediation.
Keep in mind that not having a valid EICR could put you at risk of fines up to £30,000, and your eviction rights under Section 21 could be affected.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Offer flexible appointment times
- Send a reminder 24 hours before
- Keep pets in a separate room if possible
- Ensure someone is available to unlock rooms or cupboards
Why Book With CIR Electrical?
We work regularly in tenanted homes across Manchester and understand the need for fast, discreet, and professional service. Our EICRs are:
- Carried out by NAPIT-registered electricians
- Fixed price at £160 including VAT
- Scheduled with your tenant in mind
- Delivered within 48 hours of inspection
Book Your Tenant-Safe EICR Today
📞 Call CIR Electrical on 0161 959 2321
💬 Message us on WhatsApp
We’ll help you stay compliant, keep your tenants informed, and avoid unnecessary legal headaches.