What is an EICR?
Electrical installation condition reports commonly known as an EICR is an in-depth inspection of your properties electrical systems and installation including electrical outlets, wiring and consumer units also reporting on any potential safety issues. One of the main causes of electrical fires in the home is faulty and or old wiring.
In general, your electrician will check that:
- your fuse board is safe and compliant with the current regulations.
- Everything is correctly earthed – to prevent potentially fatal electric shock.
- The wiring in your sockets, lights, switches and accessories is installed correctly.
Who needs an EICR?
Over time electrical installations deteriorate with wear and tear and age. This can pose a risk to homeowners or landlords with tenants living in their property. If not checked regularly improperly insulated wiring can lead to dangerous electrical shorts, or faulty wiring and appliances can cause electrical fires.
The IET Wiring Regulations BS 7671, which sets the standard for electrical installations in the UK, recommends the following:
- Business Owners – should have an EICR test once every five years.
- Landlords – should also have an EICR test once every 5 years, or when there is a change of tenancy – the law around EICR reports changed in July 2020 to state that a landlord MUST have an EICR in place for all rental properties.
- Homeowners – should have an EICR test one every 10 years unless the property has a swimming pool in which case it is recommended the electrics should be tested every year.
What happens after an EICR?
An EICR must be completed by a professional electrician qualified to issue the report. If passed an EICR gives the assurance that the electrics in the property are working as they should be. Any faults found are graded from Code 1 to 3 with a code 1 meaning immediate remedial action needs to be taken. Code 2 refers to potential danger that should be rectified as soon as possible and the electrician will advise on the work to be done. A code 3 means improvement is recommended however the electrical system is still safe – an EICR is still passed if a code 3 is given.
Any work required should be carried out quickly by a qualified electrician to rectify any faults. The electrician will then need to provide written evidence of the work carried out and that the required standards have been met. In cases of rental properties if remedial work is not carried out or at the very least scheduled within 28 days of a failed report the local authorities have the power to step in and arrange emergency work on the property – and present the landlord with the bill.
This is why it is important when selecting an electrician to complete an EICR on your property that the electrician can also provide the remedial services if required in a timely manner and all the correct certification of work carried out.
EICR testing in Darlington
Demanded Electrical Solutions are fully qualified in EICR testing in Darlington, we pride ourselves on being trustworthy and reliable and will work with you to schedule any remedial work required at a time convenient to you.
Contact us today to arrange a free no obligation quote.
