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EICR Certificate

Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)

Everything You Need to Know

What is an EICR?

An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a detailed inspection and report of a property's electrical systems and installations. It ensures your property's electrical installations are safe and compliant with current regulations. This comprehensive assessment is carried out by a qualified electrician who examines all fixed electrical components including wiring, sockets, fuse boxes, and other electrical installations.

How Long is an EICR Valid For?

🏠

Residential Rental

5 Years
🏡

Owner-Occupied

10 Years
(recommended)
🏢

Commercial

5 Years
(may vary)

Major Electrical Work

New
(new inspection)

How to Get Your EICR Certificate

1

Search for a Qualified Inspector

Use our directory to find certified EICR inspectors or electricians in your area. You can filter results based on location, property type, and customer reviews.

2

Book Your Inspection

Schedule an appointment directly with your chosen provider. Many inspectors offer flexible booking options to fit your schedule.

3

Inspection Day

A qualified electrician will visit your property to conduct a detailed inspection of your electrical installations, checking for faults, hazards, and non-compliance with safety standards.

4

Receive Your EICR Report

After the inspection, you'll receive a comprehensive EICR report. This document will outline the condition of your electrical installations, highlight any issues found, and include recommendations for improvements if needed.

5

Fix Any Issues

If the report identifies faults or areas of non-compliance, you'll need to arrange for repairs or upgrades. Many inspectors offer follow-up services to help you address these concerns.

6

Certification Issued

Once all issues are resolved, you'll receive your EICR certificate, confirming that your property is safe and compliant.

Common EICR Failures and Solutions

Critical Issues (C1 Classification)

  • Exposed live wiring
  • Broken consumer units
  • Inadequate earthing
  • Overloaded circuits
  • Immediate risk of electric shock

Solution: Require immediate action and the power may need to be disconnected

Potential Hazards (C2 Classification)

  • Outdated consumer units
  • Missing RCD protection
  • Damaged socket outlets
  • Inadequate IP ratings in bathrooms
  • Insufficient cable support

Solution: Must be addressed within 28 days

Recommended Improvements (C3 Classification)

  • Outdated but safe fittings
  • Non-compliant but safe cable colors
  • Minor wear and tear
  • Aesthetic issues

Solution: No immediate action required but improvements recommended

Frequently Asked Questions

An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a detailed inspection of a property's electrical systems and installations. It assesses the safety and condition of existing electrical installations and identifies any potential hazards or areas that need improvement.

EICR stands for Electrical Installation Condition Report. It's an official document that provides a comprehensive assessment of the electrical systems within a property.

An EICR inspection involves: - Testing of electrical installations and wiring - Assessment of electrical safety - Checking for potential fire hazards - Identifying any defective electrical work - Evaluating earthing and bonding - Testing of circuit breakers and protective devices

An EICR is typically valid for: - 5 years for residential rental properties - 3-5 years for commercial properties - The specific duration may vary depending on the property type and local regulations

Frequency requirements vary by property type: - Residential rental properties: Every 5 years - Commercial properties: Usually every 3-5 years - When there's a change of occupancy - After any major electrical modifications

EICR costs vary depending on: - Property size - Number of circuits to be tested - Property location - Complexity of the electrical installation Average costs typically range from £150 to £300 for residential properties.

The duration of an EICR inspection typically: - 2-4 hours for an average residential property - May take longer for larger properties - Depends on the complexity of electrical installations - Can extend if issues are found requiring further investigation

Yes, EICRs are legally required for: - Residential landlords renting out properties - Many commercial properties - Specific requirements may vary by region and property type

While not always legally required, having an EICR when selling a property: - Can provide assurance to potential buyers - May be requested by mortgage lenders - Demonstrates responsible property maintenance - Could help expedite the sale process

An EICR must be conducted by: - A qualified and competent electrician - Someone registered with a recognized electrical governing body - A professional with appropriate electrical testing qualifications - An electrician with specific EICR certification

Yes, commercial properties typically require an EICR: - It's often required for insurance purposes - Helps comply with workplace safety regulations - Frequency may differ from residential requirements - Specific requirements depend on the type of business

Responsibility typically falls to: - The property owner - The landlord (if leased) - Sometimes shared between landlord and tenant (check lease agreement) - The business operator in some cases

If an EICR identifies issues: - A detailed report will highlight all problems found - Issues will be categorized by severity (C1, C2, C3) - Urgent safety issues must be addressed immediately - A timeline for repairs will be recommended - A new inspection may be required after repairs

You can obtain your EICR certificate by: - Requesting it from your landlord - Contacting the electrician who performed the inspection - Checking your property documentation - Asking your property management company

Ready to get your EICR certificate?

Find qualified EICR inspectors near you and ensure your property's electrical safety

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