Quick Answer
Most landlords pay between £90 and £350 for a standard domestic EICR, with the UK average sitting around £150 to £200. Prices in London and the South East run 15 to 30 percent higher than the national average. Remedial work is charged separately and can range from £50 for a minor fix to several thousand pounds for a full rewire.
Typical Price Ranges by Property Size
| Property Type | Typical UK Price Range |
|---|---|
| Studio flat | £90 to £150 |
| 1 to 2 bedroom flat or house | £120 to £220 |
| 3 bedroom house | £150 to £260 |
| 4+ bedroom house | £180 to £350 |
| HMO | £250 to £500+ |
| Small commercial unit | £300 to £500 |
| Large commercial or industrial | Several thousand pounds |
London and the South East typically sit at the higher end of each range, sometimes above it, due to higher labour costs and congestion charges.
What Actually Drives the Price
- Number of circuits. More circuits mean more testing time, and time is the main cost driver.
- Age of the installation. Older wiring and outdated consumer units take longer to assess safely.
- Access. Painted-over consumer units, blocked sockets, and hard-to-reach loft wiring all add time.
- Number of consumer units. HMOs and converted properties often have more than one board, which increases cost.
- Location. Urban areas, particularly London, carry higher electrician day rates.
Is the Inspection Fee the Whole Cost?
No. The EICR fee only covers the inspection and the written report. If the report comes back unsatisfactory, remedial work is a separate cost. Typical remedial prices include:
- RCBO installation: £120 to £160
- Earth bonding upgrade: £120 to £200
- New consumer unit: £450 to £700
- Full rewire (three-bedroom house): £3,000 to £5,500
One London-based provider’s own inspection data showed that 38 percent of properties failed on their first EICR, so it is sensible to budget for at least a small remedial cost rather than assuming a clean pass. Find out exactly what happens if you fail an EICR before booking.
Is an EICR Cost Tax Deductible?
In most cases, yes. EICR costs are generally treated as a maintenance or compliance expense and can be deducted against rental income for tax purposes. This applies to the inspection fee and most remedial work, since both relate to maintaining the property in a safe, lettable condition. Always confirm the specifics with your accountant, since individual circumstances vary.
How to Spot an Underpriced or Risky Quote
A very low quote is not automatically bad, but it is worth checking carefully. Ask whether the price includes:
- A full written report with photographs of any defects
- Testing of every circuit, not just a visual check
- A quote from an electrician registered with NICEIC or NAPIT
- No hidden call-out or travel fees added after the visit
Genuinely qualified electricians rarely price a standard two to three bedroom EICR below £60 to £70 once overheads, insurance, and travel are factored in. If a quote sits far below the typical range, ask directly what is and is not included before booking.
Fixed Price Versus Quote Based Providers
Fixed-price providers publish a set price by property size, which makes budgeting easier and avoids surprises. Quote-based providers assess the property first, which can be more accurate for unusual properties but leaves you without a firm number until they visit. Neither approach is inherently better, but fixed pricing tends to suit standard domestic properties, while larger or older properties often benefit from a proper quote.
Cost of Not Getting One
Skipping or delaying an EICR is far more expensive than the certificate itself. Non-compliance can lead to a civil penalty of up to £40,000, invalidated landlord insurance, and difficulty completing a sale or remortgage. Weighed against a typical cost of £150 to £250, the EICR is a small outlay compared to the financial risk of going without one.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an EICR cost for a landlord?
Most landlords pay between £90 and £350, with the UK average around £150 to £200 for a standard domestic property.
Does EICR cost include remedial work?
No. The inspection fee only covers testing and the report. Remedial work for any C1, C2, or FI issues is charged separately.
Is EICR cost tax deductible?
Generally yes, as a maintenance expense against rental income, but confirm with your accountant.
Why is EICR cost higher in London?
Higher electrician day rates, congestion charges, and parking scarcity add roughly 15 to 30 percent to the national average.
How much does remedial work typically cost?
Minor fixes range from £50 to £200. A new consumer unit typically costs £450 to £700. A full rewire can run from £3,000 to £5,500 or more.
This article reflects UK electrical safety regulations and typical UK pricing current as of August 2026. For guidance specific to your property, consult a qualified electrician registered with NICEIC or NAPIT.