What is an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report)?
An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a comprehensive assessment of an electrical installation to ensure that it is safe, meets the required standards and is in good working order. An EICR Inspection is carried out by an electrician qualified in inspection and testing who will check the electrical installation and issue a certificate to the property owner.
Why is an EICR required?
An EICR is a legal requirement for landlords who rent out properties with electrical installations. An EICR Inspection helps to ensure that the electrical installation in the property is safe for use and meets the required standards. By having an EICR, landlords can demonstrate that they are taking the necessary steps to keep their tenants safe.
What will be checked during the EICR inspection?
During an EICR inspection, the following will be checked:
• The condition of the electrical installation including the wiring, switches, sockets and consumer units.
The operation of the electrical installation including the earth bonding and polarity.
The safety of the electrical installation including the protection against electric shock and fire hazards.
The suitability of the electrical installation for the intended use of the property.
The compliance of the electrical installation with the current regulations and standards.
The overall condition of the electrical installation including visible wear and tear, and any potential hazards.
Pre-Inspection Checklist for Occupants and Tenants:
- To ensure a smooth EICR inspection of your electrical installation, it is important to prepare in advance. Here are some key points to keep in mind before the arrival of the electrician.
- Full access to the fuse board and all sockets, switches and fittings will be required
- Any obstructions in electric meter cupboard or consumer board cupboard should be removed prior to the test
- Pay-as-you-go or prepayment electric meters must have enough credit in order for the engineer to conduct the test
- The fuse board should be marked up and all relevant circuits to be identified correctly in order for the engineer to carry out the electrical inspection
- All sensitive equipment such as computers to be unplugged prior to the test
- Any damaged fixed fittings such as broken light switches, cracked sockets etc. to be identified prior to the test and the engineer to be made aware of them at the start of the visit
- Make sure any animals, children are safe and adequately supervised during the visit to maintain the safety of the engineer and others
- The service head should be adequately upgraded prior to our visit; this generally is a free of charge service. If unsure contact should be made with the relevant provider via the link below: https://www.edfenergy.com/for-home/help-support/gas-electricity-emergency-contact
NOTES:
A – Please be aware that the power to the property is likely to be switched off for several hours, so please make provisions for food items that maybe affected in the fridge or the freezer
B – PLEASE ALSO ENSURE NO MEDICAL EQUIPMENT RELIANT ON POWER IS SITUATED AT THE PROPERTY DURING OUR ATTENDANCE FOR EICR ELECTRICAL TESTING
It is important to note that an EICR is not a maintenance check but rather a safety check to ensure the electrical installation is functioning safely.