Quick answer
You shouldn't move a new tenant in while the EICR is unsatisfactory. The regulations require the installation to meet the national standard during the tenancy. An unsatisfactory report, with any C1, C2 or FI item, is a record that it doesn't. You must give the new tenant a copy of the report before they move in, so they will see it too.
What to do instead
- Get the remedial work quoted straight away. We include a fixed-price quote with every EICR. See EICR remedial work.
- Have the work done before the move-in date if you can. Most common items, such as RCD protection, a consumer unit upgrade, bonding or replacing damaged accessories, are short jobs.
- Get written confirmation that the installation is now satisfactory, plus the certificate for the work.
- Give the new tenant the EICR and the written confirmation before they move in.
What if the tenant is already living there?
If the inspection happens during a tenancy and the report is unsatisfactory, the tenancy doesn't end. You must complete the work within 28 days, or the shorter period on the report. Any C1 (danger present) will already have been made safe on the day. Then send the tenant the written confirmation within 28 days of completing the work.
Only C3 items?
C3 means "improvement recommended". It doesn't make a report unsatisfactory, so a report with only C3s is satisfactory and you can let the property. See EICR codes explained.