An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a certificate that is produced following an assessment of the electrics in a building, by a qualified engineer. Similar to a boiler service or MOT, the electrics are tested for deterioration or potential wear and tear.
Although an EICR is not a legal requirement, Landlords are required by the Landlords and Tenants Act to ‘ensure that the electrical installation in a rented property is safe when tenants move in and maintained in a safe condition throughout its duration.’ Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMO) should have a periodic inspection carried out on the property every five years.
When purchasing a property, as part of the initial survey, you may want an inspection carried out on the electrics, just to check there are no unforeseen issues.
It is recommended that landlords have the electrics inspected after tenants leave and before the next tenancy starts. This will provide documented proof that can be crucial in the event of any incidents.
Commercial properties require an inspection annually.
The aim of the EICR is to detect any potential problems before they become a serious issue.
During an EICR the engineer will need to disconnect the mains electricity power. The time the power will be off for really depends upon the size of the property being inspected.
The electrical consumer board and wiring are then tested and a visual inspection looking for broken or cracked wiring, signs of overheating and any devices in the wrong location.
The purpose of the inspection is to determine, as far as is practical, that the installation is in a satisfactory condition for continued service.
At Carshalton Boilers, our electrical engineers specialise in all electrical work. For advice, or to book an EICR, please call us today on 020 8395 8060 or visit Carshalton-Boilers.
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