What affects the price?
Property size
The bigger the property, the more circuits need to be tested and the longer the inspection takes. A studio flat might take 1.5 hours; a 5-bedroom house might take 4–5 hours. Price broadly tracks with time on site.
Number of circuits
A property with many circuits — outbuildings, multiple consumer units, extensive outbuilding wiring — will take longer to test and cost more. The engineer needs to test each circuit individually.
Access
If the engineer can't access all areas (locked rooms, inaccessible loft, blocked consumer unit), the inspection takes longer and may need a return visit. Easy access speeds things up.
Location
Central London postcodes within the congestion zone may attract a congestion charge. Some companies pass this on; others absorb it. Always check when booking.
What do C1, C2 and C3 mean?
An EICR doesn't pass or fail — it receives a Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory outcome. Any issues found are coded:
- C1 — Danger present: Immediate risk of injury. Must be rectified before the certificate can be issued.
- C2 — Potentially dangerous: Must be addressed within 28 days. The certificate can be issued as Unsatisfactory until remedied.
- C3 — Improvement recommended: Not a legal requirement to fix, but advisable. Does not affect the overall outcome.
- FI — Further investigation required: An area that needs more investigation before a determination can be made.
Landlords with C1 or C2 observations must arrange remedial work and provide evidence to their tenants within 28 days. A new EICR should then be issued confirming the remedial work.
Beware of very cheap quotes
Very cheap EICR quotes — under £50 for a full property — should raise questions. A thorough inspection of even a small flat takes at least 90 minutes when done properly. Inspections that are too cheap are often rushed, incomplete or produce certificates that wouldn't withstand scrutiny.
A valid EICR must be carried out by a qualified electrician and the report must reference BS 7671 and follow the correct format. Landlords have been prosecuted using certificates from unqualified inspectors.
Can you combine an EICR with other visits?
Yes — and it's worth doing. Combining your EICR with a gas safety check (CP12), EPC and fire alarm test in a single visit reduces cost and disruption. Most companies offer a discount for combined bookings.