Home seller electrical guide
Do I Need an Electrical Certificate to Sell My House?
In England, a homeowner does not normally have to commission a new electrical certificate simply to sell a house. However, buyers and their advisers often ask for certificates, especially when the wiring is older or electrical work has been completed recently.
The short answer
An EICR is not the same as an installation certificate. An EICR records the condition of the fixed wiring at the time of inspection. An Electrical Installation Certificate confirms that new installation work was designed, installed and tested correctly.
A current EICR is useful evidence for a sale, but it does not replace certificates for notifiable work. Your conveyancer should advise which documents are needed for your transaction.
Electrical documents to gather before selling
- The latest Electrical Installation Condition Report
- Electrical Installation Certificates for rewires or new circuits
- Minor Works Certificates for smaller alterations
- Building Regulations compliance certificates
- Consumer unit replacement paperwork
- EV charger, solar and battery installation certificates
When an EICR can help a house sale
Consider arranging an inspection before listing if the property has an old fuse box, visible DIY alterations, frequent tripping, no recent test record or wiring that may be several decades old. Finding issues early gives you time to understand any remedial work before a buyer raises it.
For homeowners
A domestic EICR is generally recommended every 10 years and when the condition of the installation is uncertain.
For landlords
Private rented properties in England normally require inspection at least every 5 years, with a copy supplied to tenants under the applicable regulations.
Common questions
Do I need an electrical certificate to sell my house?
There is no general legal requirement for a homeowner in England to obtain a new EICR before selling. A buyer, solicitor, lender or insurer may still request evidence that the electrical installation is safe, particularly in an older property or where alterations have been made.
Do I need an EICR to sell my house?
Usually not by law, but a current EICR can answer buyer enquiries, identify defects before exchange and reduce uncertainty during conveyancing. Rental properties follow separate legal requirements.
How long is an EICR valid for?
For an owner occupied home, inspection is generally recommended at least every 10 years. For privately rented homes in England, an inspection is normally required at least every 5 years, or sooner if the report specifies.
What electrical paperwork should I give the buyer?
Provide any Electrical Installation Certificates, Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificates, Building Regulations compliance certificates and the latest EICR that you hold. Missing paperwork does not automatically stop a sale, but your conveyancer may suggest further checks.
Need an EICR before selling?
Grants Electrical Solutions Ltd provides inspections and clear reports across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset.