EICR Qualification Changes 2026

What property owners need to know

The electrical industry is preparing for some significant changes this autumn, with new competency requirements coming into force for electricians carrying out Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs).

While these changes are primarily aimed at electricians and electrical contractors, they are also good news for homeowners, landlords and businesses because they will help raise standards across the industry and ensure EICRs are carried out by appropriately qualified and experienced professionals.

What is changing?

From 1 October 2026, electricians carrying out periodic inspection and testing work, including EICRs, will need to meet stricter individual competency requirements under updates to the Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS).

Historically, many businesses operated under a system where a Qualified Supervisor held the required qualifications on behalf of the company. The new requirements place greater emphasis on the individual carrying out the inspection rather than relying solely on company registration.

Under the updated requirements, electricians undertaking EICRs will need:

• A recognised Level 3 qualification in inspection and testing
• Evidence of at least two years’ relevant inspection and testing experience
• Ongoing Continuing Professional Development (CPD) records
• Current knowledge of the latest BS 7671 wiring regulations and amendments.

Why are these changes being introduced?

The aim is simple, to improve consistency, competence and confidence across the industry.

An EICR is one of the most important electrical safety documents a property owner can obtain. It identifies defects, deterioration and potential safety risks within an electrical installation.

Incorrect inspections or poorly completed reports can result in:

• Safety hazards being missed
• Unnecessary remedial work being recommended
• Compliance issues for landlords and businesses
• Increased risk for occupants and property owners

The new standards are designed to ensure that anyone carrying out an EICR has the necessary qualifications, experience and ongoing training to do so accurately.

What does this mean for homeowners and landlords?

For customers, these changes should provide greater reassurance.

When booking an EICR, you’ll have more confidence that the person carrying out the inspection has demonstrated both competence and practical experience.

This is particularly important for:

• Landlords requiring rental property EICRs
• Businesses carrying out compliance testing
• Homeowners buying or selling property
• Commercial property owners managing electrical safety obligations

Ultimately, the quality of the inspection is just as important as the report itself.

What does this mean for Datel Electrical?

At Datel Electrical, we welcome the changes.

Electrical safety inspections are a specialist area of the industry, and we believe raising standards benefits everyone. Our team is committed to ongoing training, professional development and ensuring we remain fully compliant with the latest regulations and industry requirements.

We already place a strong emphasis on competence, experience and continuous improvement, so these changes align with the way we have always approached electrical testing and inspection.

Why EICRs remain so important

Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord or business owner, an EICR remains one of the most effective ways to identify potential electrical issues before they become serious problems.

An EICR can help:

• Identify deterioration and wear within electrical systems
• Highlight potential fire and shock risks
• Ensure compliance with landlord obligations
• Support property sales and purchases
• Provide peace of mind that installations remain safe

Regular electrical testing is an investment in the safety of your property and the people using it.

Need an EICR?

Datel Electrical provides EICRs and electrical testing for domestic and commercial properties across Newton Abbot, Torquay, Exeter, Plymouth and the wider South West.

Whether you’re a landlord preparing for compliance requirements, a business reviewing electrical safety, or a homeowner looking for peace of mind, our experienced team is here to help.