Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)

FAQs

What is EICR?

Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) are a vital aspect of ensuring the safety of a building's electrical installation. EICR is a periodic inspection report that is conducted to ensure that the electrical installation in a building is safe for use. The report examines the electrical installation, including wiring, sockets, switches, and other electrical components, and identifies any defects or hazards that may pose a risk to the safety of the building's occupants.

EICRs are essential for property owners, managers, and landlords who have a legal obligation to maintain their properties' safety. The reports are also important for homeowners who want to ensure the safety of their families and properties.

What Does an EICR Include?

An EICR is a comprehensive report that examines the safety of a building's electrical installation. The report includes a thorough inspection of the electrical installation, including the wiring, sockets, switches, and other electrical components.

The report includes a detailed assessment of the electrical installation's safety and identifies any defects or hazards that may pose a risk to the safety of the building's occupants. The report also includes recommendations for remedial action that should be taken to address any issues identified during the inspection.

Why Are EICRs Important?

EICRs are important for several reasons, including:

Safety

The safety of a building's occupants is the most critical reason why EICRs are essential. Electrical installations that are not inspected or maintained regularly can pose a significant risk to the safety of the building's occupants. Faulty wiring, defective sockets, and switches, among other things, can cause fires or electric shocks, which can result in serious injury or even death.

Legal Obligations

Property owners, managers, and landlords have a legal obligation to ensure that their properties are safe for use. EICRs are a legal requirement that helps to ensure that the electrical installations in buildings meet the necessary safety standards.

Insurance

Insurance companies require property owners and managers to provide proof that their properties are safe for use. EICRs are often a requirement for obtaining insurance cover, and failure to provide an EICR report may result in the property being considered uninsurable.

How Often Should an EICR be Conducted?

The frequency at which an EICR should be conducted varies depending on the type of property and its use.

In general, the following guidelines should be followed:

• Domestic properties: EICRs should be conducted every 10 years or when a change of occupancy occurs.
• Commercial properties: EICRs should be conducted every 5 years or when a change of occupancy occurs.
• Industrial properties: EICRs should be conducted every 3 years.

It is important to note that these are general guidelines, and the frequency at which an EICR should be conducted may vary depending on the individual circumstances of the property.

Who Should Conduct an EICR?

EICRs should be conducted by a qualified and registered electrician who has the necessary expertise and experience to conduct the inspection. The electrician should be registered with a competent person scheme, such as NICEIC, ELECSA, or NAPIT.

What Happens During an EICR Inspection?

During an EICR inspection, the electrician will conduct a visual inspection of the electrical installation, including the wiring, sockets, switches, and other electrical components. The electrician will also conduct various tests to assess the safety of the electrical installation.

The tests that are conducted during an EICR inspection include:

• Continuity testing: This test checks the electrical continuity of the wiring, ensuring that there are no breaks in the circuit.
• Insulation resistance testing: This test measures the resistance of the insulation to ensure that it is functioning correctly.
• Earth fault loop impedance testing: This test measures the earth fault loop impedance, which helps to identify any issues with the earthing system.

The electrician will also examine the electrical installation for any visible defects or hazards, such as damaged wiring or loose connections.

What Happens After an EICR Inspection?

After an EICR inspection, the electrician will provide a detailed report outlining the findings of the inspection. The report will include a list of any defects or hazards that were identified during the inspection, along with recommendations for remedial action.

If any remedial action is required, the electrician will provide a quotation for the work that needs to be done. Once the work has been completed, the electrician will conduct a follow-up inspection to ensure that the remedial work has been carried out correctly.