Landlords in Blackheath are legally required to ensure that electrical installations in their rental properties are safe and properly maintained. With many properties now reaching the five-year renewal point in 2026, this is a key year for electrical compliance across the private rented sector.
This guide explains the legal requirements for landlords, common issues found during inspections, and what steps are needed to remain compliant in 2026.
Legal Requirements for Landlords in 2026
Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must ensure that:
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An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is carried out at least every five years, or sooner if recommended
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A valid EICR is in place before a new tenancy begins
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Existing tenants receive a copy of the report within 28 days of the inspection
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The local authority is provided with a copy within 7 days, if requested
Any remedial work identified as urgent or potentially dangerous must be completed within the timescale stated on the report.
2026: The Five-Year EICR Renewal Point
The electrical safety regulations were introduced for new tenancies in July 2020 and applied to existing tenancies from April 2021. As a result, many landlords arranged their first compliance EICRs in 2021.
In 2026, a large number of these properties are now reaching the five-year renewal point, meaning a new EICR is required to remain legally compliant. Landlords should check the date of their last inspection carefully, as any EICR carried out in 2021 will now be due for renewal.
Failing to arrange a valid inspection can lead to enforcement action by the local authority, including financial penalties.
Common Failures Found During Landlord EICRs
During landlord inspections in Blackheath and surrounding SE3 areas, some of the most common issues identified include:
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Missing or outdated RCD protection
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Inadequate bonding to gas or water services
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Damaged or unsafe sockets, switches, or lighting circuits
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Signs of overheating or loose connections
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Overloaded extension leads or unsafe adaptations
Many of these issues are found in older or period properties, which are common throughout Blackheath.
What Happens If an EICR Is Unsatisfactory?
If an EICR is marked as unsatisfactory, landlords are required to:
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Complete all required remedial works within 28 days (or sooner if stated)
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Obtain written confirmation that the work has been completed
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Provide updated documentation to tenants and, if requested, the local authority
Once remedial works are completed, the installation can be confirmed as compliant.
Do HMOs Have Different Requirements?
Yes. Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) often have stricter electrical safety requirements. Depending on local council licensing conditions, inspections may be required every three years rather than five.
Landlords of HMOs should always check their licence conditions and ensure inspections are carried out at the correct intervals.
Areas We Cover
We provide landlord electrical inspections and EICRs across Blackheath and the surrounding SE3 area, including nearby parts of Greenwich and Lewisham.
Book Your 2026 Landlord Electrical Inspection in Blackheath
With many rental properties now due for their five-year EICR renewal in 2026, this is an ideal time to check your compliance status. Arranging an inspection early helps avoid delays, enforcement action, and unnecessary stress.
If you’re a landlord in Blackheath and need a professional EICR inspection, contact us today to arrange an appointment or request a quotation.