If you are an HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) landlord in London, electrical safety compliance is one of your most critical legal obligations. Since the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 came into force, all landlords — including HMO landlords — must hold a valid EICR for every rental property.

What is an EICR?

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a formal inspection of a property's fixed electrical installation. This includes the wiring, consumer unit (fuse box), sockets, light fittings and switches. A qualified electrician inspects the installation and produces a report graded as either:

• Satisfactory — no immediate action required
• Unsatisfactory — remedial work must be carried out within 28 days (or sooner if urgent)

EICR Requirements for HMO Landlords

HMO landlords in London must comply with two sets of rules:

1. The Electrical Safety Regulations 2020

• EICR must be renewed every 5 years (or sooner if recommended by the inspector)
• Copies must be provided to all tenants within 28 days of the inspection
• New tenants must receive a copy before moving in
• The local council can request a copy — you must supply it within 7 days
• Any remedial work identified must be completed within 28 days

2. HMO Licensing Requirements

If your HMO requires a licence (mandatory for properties with 5+ occupants forming 2+ households), the local council will also inspect electrical safety as part of the licensing process. Some London councils have additional licensing schemes (selective or additional licensing) that may apply to smaller HMOs in your area.

Additional Electrical Requirements for London HMOs

• Smoke and heat detectors — interconnected smoke alarms on every floor and in every bedroom, heat detector in the kitchen
• Carbon monoxide alarms — required in all rooms with a solid fuel appliance and any room with a gas appliance
• Emergency lighting — required in communal areas and escape routes in larger HMOs
• PAT testing — required for all portable electrical appliances you supply to tenants
• Fuse box — must meet current standards; older fuse boxes with rewirable fuses often need upgrading

How Much Does an EICR Cost for an HMO in London?

The cost of an EICR for an HMO in London varies depending on the size of the property and the number of circuits. A typical domestic EICR for a 3-bed property starts from around £120–£180. Larger HMOs with more circuits will cost more. Commercial EICR certificates are priced separately.

The Safety Certs offers fixed, transparent pricing — contact us for a quote specific to your property.

Penalties for EICR Non-Compliance

Local authorities in London take electrical safety compliance seriously. Penalties include:

• Fines of up to £30,000 per offence
• A notice requiring remedial works to be completed within 28 days
• The council may arrange works themselves and charge the landlord
• Potential HMO licence revocation

Book Your HMO EICR in London

The Safety Certs provides EICR certificates for HMOs and rental properties across London and the full M25 area. Qualified electricians, fast reports, competitive pricing. Same-day and next-day appointments.

Call +44 7474 765 990 or get a free quote.