Since 2020 in England, and since 2022 in Wales, private landlords have had to get the electrics in every rental inspected and tested by a qualified person. Scotland has required it for longer. Here's what that means in practice and what it costs.
| 1 to 2 bed flat | £120–£180 |
| 3 to 4 bed house | £150–£250 |
| Small HMO (up to 5 rooms) | £200–£300 |
| Large HMO | £300–£450 |
| Typical remedial fix (one C2 item) | £80–£250 |
| New consumer unit after a fail | £450–£950 |
Typical 2026 prices, including VAT where charged. Your price depends on the property and city.
C1 means danger present, C2 means potentially dangerous, and FI means further investigation is needed. Any of these makes the report unsatisfactory. C3 is a recommendation only.
Give a copy to tenants within 28 days of the inspection, to new tenants before they move in, and to the council within 7 days if asked. Remedial work is due within 28 days, or sooner if the report says.
In England, councils can fine landlords up to £30,000 for breaching the electrical safety rules.
A qualified and competent electrician, usually registered with a scheme such as NICEIC or NAPIT. Ask for the full report, not just a one-page summary.