No Electrical Certificate For The Property
- How urgent
- Caution
- Who fixes it
- An electrician
What's happening?
Electrical certificates document the safety of a property's electrical installation. The main types are: an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) issued when new wiring is installed, a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate (MEIWC) for small additions, and an EICR for periodic inspections. If your property has no certificates, it means either the paperwork has been lost or the work was never properly certified.
Book an electrician
What usually causes it?
- Previous owner lost or did not pass on the electrical certificates
- Electrical work was carried out by someone who did not issue certificates
- DIY electrical work done without involving a registered electrician
- Property is old enough that certificates were not routinely issued (pre-2005)
- Conveyancing process did not request or locate the certificates
Is it dangerous?
The absence of a certificate does not mean the electrics are dangerous, but it does mean there is no documented proof that they have been inspected and found safe. Without certification, you cannot be confident that the installation was done correctly, especially if any modifications have been made. An EICR will establish the current condition.
Can I fix it myself?
You cannot self-certify electrical work or create your own certificates. Electrical certificates can only be issued by a qualified electrician, ideally one registered with a competent person scheme (NICEIC, NAPIT, ELECSA, etc.). The solution is to have an EICR carried out, which will provide a formal record of the installation's condition.
When should you call an electrician?
Call an electrician for an EICR if you have no certificates for the property, if you are buying or selling, if you are a landlord (where it is a legal requirement), or if you want peace of mind about the safety of your installation. The electrician can also advise on any remedial work identified.
What will the electrician actually do?
- Carry out a comprehensive Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
- Inspect and test every circuit in the property
- Document all findings and code any defects found
- Provide a formal certificate recording the condition of the installation
- Recommend and quote for any remedial work required
Who fixes this
What it usually costs
- EICR Cost
- £100–£330
Questions people ask
Do I legally need an electrical certificate for my home?
Can I get a certificate for work that was already done?
What if the previous owner did not leave any certificates?
Do I need certificates to sell my house?
Sources & References
Before you book, read how to check an electrician is qualified.
What would yours cost?
We'll tell you the price for this, then find a local electrician to do it.
Get my instant quote