An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a formal inspection of a property’s fixed electrical installation. It is designed to assess the safety, condition, and compliance of electrical systems, helping to identify potential risks before they become dangerous.
Why an EICR Is Important
Electrical faults are one of the leading causes of fires in residential and commercial properties. An EICR helps to ensure that your electrical installation is safe to use and meets current safety standards.
During an EICR, qualified electricians check:
-
Consumer units and distribution boards
-
Wiring condition and earthing arrangements
-
RCD protection and safety devices(RCBO, SPD)
-
Signs of overheating, damage, or wear
-
Compliance with current wiring regulations(BS 7671)
Any issues found are clearly recorded and classified to show the level of urgency.
Legal Requirements for Landlords
In England, landlords are legally required to have a valid EICR carried out at least every five years or change of tenancy for rented properties. This is important because everytime there is a new tenant the house or flat needs to be retested by a qualified electrician and issue an EICR. A copy of the report must be provided to tenants and, if requested, to the local authority.
Failure to comply can result in enforcement action and significant fines.
Protecting Homeowners and Businesses
Even if you are not a landlord, an EICR is strongly recommended for homeowners and businesses, particularly if:
-
The property is over 10 years old
-
You are buying or selling a property
-
You notice frequent electrical issues such breakers going off/tripping every now and then
-
The installation has been altered or did construction works in your house
An EICR provides peace of mind by confirming that your electrical system is safe and reliable.
EICR Results Explained
After the inspection, the report will be marked as either Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory. Any issues are coded as:
-
C1 – Danger present, immediate action required
-
C2 – Potentially dangerous, urgent remedial work required
-
C3 – Improvement recommended
-
FI – Further investigation required
Only C1, C2, or FI items result in an unsatisfactory report.
Why Choose a Qualified Electrician
An EICR must be carried out by a competent and qualified electrician who understands current regulations and testing procedures. Accurate testing and clear reporting are essential to ensure safety and compliance.
Need an EICR in London?
We carry out EICR inspections for residential and commercial properties across London and the surrounding areas. Our reports are clear, practical, and issued promptly, with honest advice on any remedial work required.
Contact us today to book your EICR Inspection.
