Information for Landlords

An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a safety inspection of a property’s fixed electrical installation. For landlords, it’s one of the key compliance documents that helps prove the electrics have been inspected and are safe.

An EICR electrical certificate is produced by a qualified person after inspection and testing, and it will state any issues and when the next inspection is due.

For most privately rented homes in England, landlords must have electrical installations inspected and tested at least every 5 years, obtain a report (usually an EICR), and provide it to tenants (and the council if requested).

The legal requirement is national (England), but Birmingham City Council can request copies and enforce where needed. If you want us to coordinate your EICR as part of management, we can.

Costs vary by size and complexity, but typical Birmingham ranges often quoted are around £100–£230 for an apartment and £150–£300+ for a house (quotes will vary by circuits, access and condition).

Generally, you do not need an EICR to sell a property. However, having one can reassure buyers, especially in older homes or where electrics might be questioned.

For rental properties, inspections are required at least every 5 years (or sooner if the report recommends an earlier re-test).

An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) shows a property’s energy efficiency, typical energy costs, and recommended improvements. An EPC is required when a property is sold or let, and it’s generally valid for 10 years.

An EPC gives a rating from A (best) to G (worst). Higher-rated homes are typically cheaper to heat and may be more appealing to tenants and buyers.

You can look up an existing certificate online using the official register by searching your postcode/address. If yours has expired or doesn’t exist, you’ll need to commission a new EPC before marketing.

Selective licensing is a scheme where a council requires landlords in certain areas to hold a licence for privately rented property, usually to improve standards and management in higher-risk areas.

Birmingham operates selective licensing in specific areas. As schemes can be ward-specific, the key step is checking whether your property falls within a covered ward before you apply. If your property is in-scope, you’ll need to apply and meet the licence conditions.

At the time of Birmingham’s published scheme information, licences were shown as costing £700 per property, with no discounts typically referenced for multiple properties. Always confirm the latest fee when you apply.

Birmingham’s scheme information states that a licence can last for up to 5 years.