What Is an EICR?
EICR (or Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a report to determine the safety of a property’s electrical installation. Property owners often schedule EICR tests every ten years but may do so more often if any of the following conditions occur:
- Concern about the electrical installation arises
- The property’s intended purpose has changed (such as rented properties shifting to businesses).
- Property type – you should perform EICR testing annually if you have one with a swimming pool.
- Amount of time since installation (the longer it has been, the greater need for updated EICR tests)
- Misuse of installation
- Changes to the environment
An EICR certificate ensures your unit and fuse box are safe, preventing electric shocks and unexpected damage or injuries.
THE EICR and the Law
It is not currently illegal for business owners or landlords to have no EICR, but they are still responsible for the welfare of those on their property. It is the property owner’s responsibility if something happens to employees or tenants because of faulty or harmful electrics. A licensed electrician at Haley Electrical Services can issue an EICR certificate after inspection, assessing whether or not the system is up to electrical safety standards.
However, you should know that properties in any private rented sector (in England and Scotland) must have EICR. It is a professional document that only a trusted contractor or electrician grants, ranking it in one of three ways.
- C1 – Your electrical unit is dangerous and requires prompt fixing.
- C2 – Your electrical system is potentially harmful and should receive updates or fixes soon.
- C3 – Your electrics pose no danger or threat, but you should make any necessary or recommended upgrades.
EICR London inspections are easy to obtain and let you know what repairs need fixing immediately.
Your Questions
EICR London or other area assessments can cause you to ask many questions, but we can clarify.
Do I Need an EICR to Sell My House?
While you do not need an EICR to sell your house, it is a good idea as it shows potential buyers you value their safety. They are less likely to want to purchase a property they are unsure is safe and secure. Providing them and yourself with peace of mind is always a good idea.
How Long Does an EICR Take?
Every circumstance differs, but an EICR test can take one to four hours on average.
How Long Does an EICR Last?
Once your EICR is complete, the technician will inform you how long you can wait before your next one. The suggested guideline, as set by the British Standards Institute, is every five years, but additional factors (age of installation, property type, etc.) can make it more frequent. Speak with your local electrician for more specific guidance tailored to your property and electrics.
It is best to assess high-risk environments more often, such as areas with water or moisture (pools or saunas) or properties like cinemas and petrol stops. Areas without extreme temperature changes can go with more time between EICRs.
What Does an EICR Involve?
The electrician from Haley Electrical Services will make numerous observations, assigning them a code based on their quality. Some notes may include defects or errors in the installation that are minor or very dangerous. Notations are clear and written based on how severe each issue is.
The property owner can obtain one or multiple quotes from whoever they see fit to address their electrical issues, obtaining an updated EICR afterwards.
EICR Testing You Can Depend On
Prevent electrical fires, short circuits, and faulty wiring from causing you problems by scheduling your EICR today with the professionals. The experts at Haley Electrical Services can help, so call us today at 03308 281598.
