How Often Do I Need An EICR?

1) You need an EICR at regular intervals, the frequency of which is determined by the type of property. Confused? Read on as we discuss everything EICR related.

2) Are my electrics safe?

Electrical systems should be periodically inspected and tested by a professional electrician. This is not well known outside of the electrical industry but when you think about it, it makes perfect sense, right?

I mean, why would you install an electrical system then leave it to its own devices for decade after decade without checking if everything was alright? Many customers don’t even know that they can have their electrical systems professionally checked and that is where an EICR comes in. 

3) What is an EICR, exactly?

When a electrical safety check is carried out (called a Periodic Electrical Inspection) your electrician produces the results of the safety check on a document called an Electrical Installation Condition Report or EICR for short. 

This report is a detailed, thorough, and important document outlining the condition of the electrical system, safety concerns (if any), and recommendations for electrical improvements. 

4) How often do I need an EICR?

This report should be produced at periodic intervals. The more likely the electrical system is to become damaged or dangerous the more frequently the inspection should be carried out. 

Typically, inspections should be carried out as follows:

• Privately owned homes – Every 10 years or before purchasing (unless the home is brand new at the time of purchase)
• Privately rented homes – Every 5 years  
• Commercial Premises – Depends on use

If you are unsure how often your property should be inspected then please contact us for advice and we will be glad to assist. 

(If the electrical system in any property is showing signs of wear and tear, distress, or the inspector has concerns then they may recommend that inspections are carried out more frequently)

5) What if my electrical system ‘FAILS’ the inspection?

There are two outcomes to an EICR, these are SATISFACTORY and UNSATISFACTORY. If an EICR is returned as unsatisfactory, then there will be remedial works that are required in order to bring the electrical system up to a satisfactory standard. 

6) What do the codes mean on an EICR?

There are a number of codes that are applied to EICR findings. When the inspector comes across electrical issues, situations, and problems they will apply a severity code to their observation. These codes are as follows:

• C1 – Immediately Dangerous. Immediate remedial action required.
• C2 – Potentially Dangerous. Urgent remedial action required.
• C3 – Recommendation for Improvement. Safety upgrades recommended.
• FI – Further Investigation. Where the inspector suspects that, given further time, access or testing, the situation may result in a C1 or C2 code. 

NOTE – Something which the inspector has observed which they wish to bring to your attention but may not attract a code. 

7) EICR for Peace of Mind

Stop worrying about what your electrics MIGHT be hiding and IF there is danger and have an electrical safety check carried out to determine if there are any problems, dangers or safety upgrades recommended. Sometimes fear of the unknown is worse than actually finding out the truth. We are very approachable, honest, and knowledgeable. When it comes to testing electrical systems, we are the local experts and will give you a straight forward appraisal of your electrical system condition. 

8) Contact us

Get in touch with us today for an EICR quote in Chesterfield and surrounding areas. We are more than happy to help and could fit your inspection in sooner than you think.