How Long Does an EICR Last?

"How long does an EICR last?" is one of the most common follow-up questions we get after explaining what one actually is, and the honest answer depends on what the property's used for.

Here's the breakdown by property type, plus the situations that can force a renewal earlier than expected.

Rented residential property

For private rented housing in Scotland, the standard interval is five years, or sooner if the previous report recommends it. Landlords have a legal duty to keep a satisfactory report in place continuously — not just get one done once and forget about it.

Owner-occupied homes

There's no fixed legal expiry for a homeowner's own EICR, since there's no statutory duty to have one at all. That said, most electricians recommend renewing every ten years for a standard domestic property, or five years if the property is older or the last inspection flagged concerns worth monitoring.

Commercial and industrial premises

Commercial properties are often recommended shorter intervals — frequently five years, sometimes less depending on the type of premises and how the electrical installation is used. Higher-risk environments, like those with heavy machinery or public access, often warrant more frequent inspection regardless of any specific legal minimum.

What can trigger an earlier renewal

A change of tenancy, a failed or unsatisfactory previous report, significant electrical work being carried out, or simply a specific recommendation on the last EICR for an earlier re-check can all mean a fresh inspection is needed before the standard interval is up.