What is an EICR inspection?

EICR stands for Electrical Installation Condition Report, which is an inspection that is carried out in the United Kingdom to assess the electrical safety and condition of a property. It is conducted by a qualified and registered electrician or electrical contractor who has the appropriate skills and knowledge to perform such inspections.The purpose of an EICR inspection is to identify any potential risks or electrical defects within an installation that could lead to electric shock, fire hazards, or other safety concerns. It is particularly important for landlords and property owners to ensure the safety of electrical installations in their premises to comply with legal requirements and to protect the well-being of occupants.

What will the electrician inspect during an EICR?

During an EICR inspection, the electrician will thoroughly examine the electrical installation and its components, including the wiring, switches, sockets, consumer units (fuse boxes), earthing, bonding, and any other relevant electrical equipment. They will assess the condition, adequacy, and compliance of the installation with the current edition of the wiring regulations (BS 7671), which sets the standards for electrical safety in the UK.

The inspection process involves various procedures, such as visual checks, testing, and sometimes dismantling or opening up parts of the installation to access hidden wiring or components. The electrician will look for signs of wear and tear, overloading, damaged cables, improperly installed equipment, and other potential safety issues.

What does the EICR report consist of?

The results of the EICR inspection are documented in the form of an Electrical Installation Condition Report. This report provides detailed information about the condition of the installation, identifies any non-compliances, and highlights any remedial actions that need to be taken. It may include a classification system for observed defects, ranging from C1 (danger present) to C3 (improvement recommended).

Based on the outcome of the inspection, the electrician may recommend further investigations, repairs, or upgrades to ensure the electrical installation meets the required safety standards. It is advisable to address any issues identified in the EICR report promptly to maintain electrical safety and compliance.

Is the EICR inspection a legal requirement? And how often do landlords need to do it?

In the UK, there is a legal obligation for landlords to obtain an EICR report every 5 years or sooner for certain types of properties. Additionally, an EICR inspection may be required when buying or selling a property, to demonstrate its electrical safety.
If you are concerned about the electrical safety of your property or need to comply with legal requirements, it is recommended to engage a qualified and registered electrician to conduct an EICR inspection and provide the necessary documentation.