EICR Cost Breakdown: How Much Should You Pay for Electrical Testing in 2026?

If you are looking into getting an Electrical Installation Condition Report, understanding EICR cost is one of the first things you need to get right. Whether you are a landlord meeting your legal obligations, a homeowner wanting peace of mind, or a business owner keeping your premises safe, knowing what to expect to pay -- and what that money actually buys you -- helps you make an informed decision and avoid overpaying or, worse, underpaying for a substandard job.

In this guide, we break down EICR pricing for 2026, covering national averages, what you should expect in East Sussex, the factors that push costs up or down, and why the cheapest quote is almost never the best value.

All prices in this guide reflect typical rates for qualified, registered electricians in 2026. Actual costs will vary depending on your property. We always recommend getting a written quote before any work begins.

National Average EICR Costs

Across England, the electrical certificate cost for a standard EICR ranges from approximately £120 to £400 depending on the size and type of property. This is the fee for the inspection and report itself -- any remedial work required is quoted and charged separately.

These figures apply to inspections carried out by qualified electricians registered with an approved scheme such as NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA. Prices at the lower end are typical for small flats with a limited number of circuits. Prices at the higher end reflect larger properties, commercial premises, or installations with complex wiring arrangements.

It is worth noting that an EICR is not a quick visual check. A thorough inspection requires specialist testing equipment, circuit-by-circuit analysis, and detailed reporting. The time an electrician spends on your property directly affects the cost, which is why property size is the single biggest pricing factor.

East Sussex Typical Pricing

If you are wondering how much is an EICR in the Eastbourne and East Sussex area, the following table gives a realistic breakdown for 2026. These prices are for a full EICR inspection and certificate from a qualified, NICEIC-approved electrician.

Property Type	Typical EICR Cost
1-bedroom flat	£120 -- £180
2-bedroom house	£150 -- £220
3-bedroom house	£180 -- £280
4-bedroom house	£220 -- £350
Commercial premises	£250 -- £500+

Prices in East Sussex are broadly in line with the national average, though slightly lower than central London and slightly higher than some northern regions. Local competition between qualified electricians helps keep pricing fair. Commercial premises vary more widely because the number of circuits, three-phase supplies, and the complexity of the installation all influence the time required.

For a more detailed look at how these costs compare with other electrical work, see our electrician prices guide for Eastbourne.

Factors Affecting EICR Cost

No two properties are identical, and several factors influence the final price of your EICR. Understanding these helps you anticipate whether your property is likely to fall at the lower or higher end of the cost range.

Number of Circuits

This is the most significant factor. A one-bedroom flat might have 6 to 8 circuits, while a four-bedroom house could have 15 to 20 or more. Each circuit must be individually tested, with insulation resistance, earth fault loop impedance, and RCD trip times all recorded. More circuits means more testing time.

Property Age

Older properties in Eastbourne -- Victorian terraces, Edwardian semis, and inter-war houses -- frequently have more complex or deteriorated wiring that takes longer to inspect. Properties with original rubber-insulated wiring, outdated earthing arrangements, or extensions that have been added over the decades require more careful examination. A 1930s property will almost always cost more to inspect than a 2015 new-build with a modern consumer unit and neatly run PVC cabling.

Accessibility

The electrician needs clear access to every circuit, the consumer unit, all rooms, loft spaces, and any outbuildings with electrical supplies. If your consumer unit is buried behind stored items in a cupboard, if circuit routes are concealed behind finished walls, or if loft access is restricted, the inspection takes longer. Properties where the electrician can move freely and reach all points of the installation will be quicker and cheaper to inspect.

Location

Travel time and local market rates affect pricing. Properties in central Eastbourne are straightforward for a locally based electrician. More rural locations across East Sussex may attract a small travel supplement. That said, the variation due to location is typically modest -- perhaps £20 to £30 either way.

Previous Condition of the Installation

If your property has had recent electrical work, an up-to-date consumer unit, and a previous satisfactory EICR, the inspection tends to be more straightforward. Properties that have not been inspected for many years, or where significant DIY work has been carried out, often require more time to assess.

What Is Included in an EICR

Understanding what your EICR cost actually pays for helps you judge whether a quote represents good value. A proper EICR from D J Fox Electrical includes the following.

Full Visual Inspection -- The electrician examines the entire fixed electrical installation, including the consumer unit, all sockets, switches, light fittings, wiring routes, and earthing and bonding arrangements. This visual check identifies obvious defects, damage, deterioration, and non-compliant installations before any testing begins.

Circuit-by-Circuit Testing -- Every circuit in the property is tested individually using calibrated instruments. Tests include insulation resistance (checking the integrity of cable insulation), earth fault loop impedance (ensuring faults will cause protective devices to operate quickly), and RCD trip times (confirming residual current devices disconnect within safe timeframes). The power is briefly interrupted to each circuit during testing.

Certification -- On completion, you receive a formal Electrical Installation Condition Report. This is a standardised document that records all test results, observations, and classification codes. The report is signed by the qualified inspector and, where possible, issued on the same day as the inspection. A digital copy is emailed to you for your records.

Detailed Report with Recommendations -- Every observation is classified using the standard coding system (C1 for danger present, C2 for potentially dangerous, C3 for improvement recommended, FI for further investigation required). The report includes clear explanations of any issues found and recommendations for remedial action.

Free Telephone Consultation -- After the inspection, we are happy to discuss the findings with you, explain what the classification codes mean in practice, and advise on the priority and cost of any remedial work.

Remedial Work Costs

It is important to understand that remedial work is not included in the EICR fee. If the inspection identifies faults that require correction, these are quoted separately. This is standard practice across the industry and ensures transparency -- you are never paying for work you might not need.

Typical Remedial Work Costs

Remedial Work	Typical Cost
Missing or defective earth bonding	£50 -- £150
Replacing damaged sockets or switches	£60 -- £120 per unit
RCD retrofitting	£100 -- £250
Consumer unit upgrade	£400 -- £800
Partial rewiring (single circuit)	£200 -- £500
Full rewire (major defects)	£2,000 -- £8,000

Minor remedial work (a single bonding connection, replacing a cracked socket) is typically inexpensive and can often be carried out on the day of the inspection if you agree. Major work such as a consumer unit upgrade or partial rewiring will be quoted separately with a detailed breakdown.

For landlords, remedial work identified as C1 (danger present) must be addressed immediately. C2 (potentially dangerous) observations must be rectified within 28 days, or sooner if specified in the report. We always provide a clear written quote for any remedial work before proceeding.

Beware Very Cheap EICRs

When comparing EICR quotes, you may encounter prices that seem significantly lower than the ranges in this guide. While everyone appreciates a good deal, an unusually cheap EICR price should be treated with caution. Here is why.

Inadequate Testing

A thorough EICR for a three-bedroom house takes a qualified electrician two to three hours. If someone is offering to inspect your property in under an hour, they are almost certainly not testing every circuit properly. An incomplete EICR is worse than no EICR at all -- it gives you a false sense of security while potentially missing serious defects.

Unqualified Testers

Only electricians registered with an approved competent person scheme (NICEIC, NAPIT, ELECSA, or equivalent) should carry out EICR inspections. They must hold the City & Guilds 2391 inspection and testing qualification (or equivalent) and be up to date with the current BS 7671 wiring regulations. An EICR from an unqualified person has no legal standing. It will not be accepted by your local authority, your letting agent, or your insurance company.

False Economy

If a cheap EICR misses a genuine fault -- a deteriorated earth connection, a circuit without RCD protection, failing insulation -- the consequences range from a failed future inspection (and the cost of a proper re-test) to a serious electrical incident. The cost of a proper electrical safety certificate from a qualified electrician is modest compared to the potential cost of getting it wrong.

What to Check Before Booking

Before accepting any EICR quote, verify the following:

• The electrician is registered with NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA (check their online registers)
• They hold the 2391 or equivalent inspection and testing qualification
• They use calibrated testing instruments (ask when they were last calibrated)
• The quoted time is realistic for your property size
• The quote includes a full written report with all test results

Additional Costs to Be Aware Of

Beyond the EICR itself and any remedial work, there are a few additional costs that may apply in certain situations.

Follow-Up Visits

If your EICR identifies C1 or C2 faults that require remedial work, the affected circuits will need to be re-tested after the repairs are completed. Some electricians include one re-test visit in their remedial work quote. Others charge a separate re-test fee, typically £50 to £100. Clarify this when accepting a remedial work quote.

Urgent Remedial Work

If the inspection reveals a C1 (danger present) classification, the electrician may need to make the installation safe immediately. This could involve disconnecting a dangerous circuit or carrying out emergency repairs. While the electrician will always prioritise your safety, this work may attract additional charges if it falls outside the original EICR scope. You will always be informed and asked to agree before any additional work is carried out.

Multi-Property Discounts

Landlords and property managers with multiple properties can often negotiate a reduced per-property rate by booking several EICRs at once. If you manage a portfolio of rental properties in the Eastbourne area, contact us to discuss portfolio pricing.

How Often Do You Need an EICR?

Understanding the testing schedule helps you budget for future electrical safety certification costs.

Rental Properties -- Every 5 Years (Legal Requirement)

Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must have a valid EICR for every rental property, renewed at least every five years. The report must be provided to new tenants before they move in and to existing tenants within 28 days. Failure to comply can result in fines of up to £30,000.

Owner-Occupied Properties -- Every 10 Years (Recommended)

Homeowners are not legally required to have an EICR, but the industry recommendation is every ten years. However, if you live in an older property, have carried out significant renovation work, or notice any warning signs (flickering lights, tripping circuits, burning smells, discoloured sockets), you should arrange an inspection sooner.

Commercial Properties -- Risk-Based

For businesses, the frequency depends on the type of premises and the risk level. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require employers to maintain safe electrical installations. Testing intervals range from one to five years depending on the environment:

• Offices and shops -- every 5 years
• Restaurants and hospitality -- every 3 to 5 years
• Industrial premises -- every 3 years
• Construction sites -- every 3 months

When the Report Specifies Earlier Re-Testing

Regardless of the standard intervals above, the inspector may recommend a shorter re-test period if they identify issues that need monitoring. Always follow the recommended re-test date stated on your EICR.

Money-Saving Tips for EICR Testing

There are several legitimate ways to reduce the overall cost of EICR testing without compromising on quality or safety.

Book When Other Work Is Being Done -- If you are already having electrical work carried out, such as a rewiring or consumer unit upgrade, ask your electrician to include an EICR as part of the job. The electrician is already on site with their testing equipment, and the marginal cost of adding an EICR to an existing visit is lower than a standalone inspection.

Bundle Multiple Properties -- Landlords with several rental properties should book all their EICRs at the same time. Most electricians, including D J Fox Electrical, offer portfolio discounts when inspecting multiple properties in a single booking.

Prepare Your Property -- Ensure clear access to the consumer unit, all rooms, loft spaces, and any outbuildings before the electrician arrives. Move furniture away from sockets and switches. Label your consumer unit if it is not already labelled. Reducing the time the electrician spends navigating access issues directly reduces the overall cost.

Keep Records -- If you have previous EICR reports, electrical installation certificates from recent work, or documentation of your consumer unit upgrade, have these available on the day. They help the electrician understand the installation history and can speed up the inspection.

Do Not Delay -- Putting off an EICR can end up costing more. Problems that would have been minor C3 observations (improvement recommended) can deteriorate into C2 (potentially dangerous) or C1 (danger present) issues over time, leading to more expensive remedial work. Regular testing catches problems early when they are cheaper to fix.

Avoid Emergency Bookings -- Standard appointments are cheaper than urgent or same-day bookings. If your EICR is due for renewal, book well in advance rather than waiting until the last moment before a tenancy deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an EICR the same as an electrical certificate?

Yes. An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is the formal name for what many people call an electrical certificate, electrical safety certificate, or periodic inspection report. They all refer to the same inspection and testing process. The certificate you receive at the end is the EICR itself.

Can I do an EICR myself to save money?

No. An EICR must be carried out by a qualified electrician who is registered with an approved competent person scheme such as NICEIC. The inspection requires specialist calibrated testing equipment, in-depth knowledge of the BS 7671 wiring regulations, and the 2391 inspection and testing qualification. A self-issued report has no legal validity and will not be accepted by local authorities, letting agents, or insurers.

Why do EICR prices vary so much between electricians?

Price variation comes down to several factors: the electrician's qualifications and scheme registration, the thoroughness of the inspection, the time allocated to your property, and business overheads. An EICR price comparison that focuses solely on the cheapest option misses the point -- what matters is that the inspection is thorough, the electrician is qualified, and the report is legally valid. A cut-price EICR that misses defects is no saving at all.

What happens if my property fails the EICR?

If your EICR comes back as Unsatisfactory (meaning C1 or C2 observations were found), remedial work is required. As a full-service electrical contractor, D J Fox Electrical can carry out the necessary repairs, then re-test the affected circuits and issue an updated report. For landlords, C1 issues must be addressed immediately, and C2 issues within 28 days or the period specified in the report.

Do I need an EICR for a new-build property?

New-build properties receive an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) on completion, which certifies the new installation. The first EICR would then be due after the initial testing period -- typically five years for a rental property, or ten years for owner-occupied. Check the date recommended on your EIC.

Is the EICR cost tax-deductible for landlords?

Yes. EICR testing and any associated remedial work are allowable expenses for landlords and can be offset against rental income for tax purposes. The same applies to other electrical safety certification costs. Keep all invoices and certificates as part of your property records. Consult your accountant for advice specific to your circumstances.

Book Your Fixed-Price EICR

D J Fox Electrical takes the uncertainty out of EICR pricing. We provide clear, fixed-price quotes for all domestic and commercial EICR inspections across Eastbourne and East Sussex. No hidden charges, no surprises -- just a professional inspection from a NICEIC-approved, Part P-registered electrician.

Our EICR service includes:

• Full visual inspection and circuit-by-circuit testing
• Detailed written report with all classification codes explained
• Same-day certificate where possible
• Digital copy emailed for your records
• Free telephone consultation to discuss findings
• Separate, transparent quotes for any remedial work required

We offer appointments within one week of enquiry, with priority and same-day slots available for urgent tenancy requirements.

Ready to book? Get in touch today to arrange your EICR inspection. Call us on [PLACEHOLDER] or email info@djfoxelectrical.com for a no-obligation, fixed-price quote. We cover Eastbourne, Lewes, Hailsham, Polegate, Seaford, and the wider East Sussex area.