Why Get an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report)?

Getting an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) regularly is important for landlords and homeowners alike. Electric installations can deteriorate over time and an EICR can ensure whether all electrical wiring, fuses, and electrical components are secure.

Landlords must also comply with regulations and provide tenants with an EICR at least every five years. This is a requirement in the new Housing Act regulations.

What is an EICR?

Electrical Installation Condition Reports, more commonly referred to as EICR tests, visually inspect the wiring of a home to identify any issues with it. They are carried out by licensed electricians and can only be performed on properties that have an active RCD. Landlords are legally required to have an up to date EICR test in rental homes. It is recommended for homeowners to get their electrical systems tested every 10 years (or earlier if you own a swimming pool).

The EICR is performed at home by an engineer who will first disconnect the electrical supply from the main supply. He will then perform various Dead Testing to ensure that the wires have not been damaged or are properly connected. These include an asymmetry test, a continuity test, and an insulation test. Live electrical tests assure that the system can be shut off within a specified timeframe if a fault has been detected. This is accomplished by using the Residual-Current Device, also known as RCD (which is used in the majority of modern electrical systems).

The engineer will then go through the results with you and tell you what you need to do to bring the electrical system up to standard. Once the electrician has completed the work, you will need to give written confirmation to your tenants and to the local housing authority that the home is safe for use. Keep a copy EICR report to keep for your documents. You may be required to show it to the local authority or insurance provider.

The report will state, "satisfactory", or "unsatisfactory". If the EICR indicates that some improvements are required, then you should take immediate action. If it states that further investigation is required the investigation must be completed within 28 days. If you don't adhere to this recommendation you will need to conduct another EICR. Electrical faults are the main cause of accidental housefires.

Why do I require an EICR?

A landlord is legally obliged to possess an EICR. It is required to ensure that properties that they lease out are in compliance with strict safety standards and regulations. Failure to comply with these standards could result in heavy fines. Additionally, an unsatisfactory report may prevent landlords from being able let their property.

An experienced electrician can check electrical devices to identify any issues that could arise. This can include faulty sockets and wiring which are usually the reason for fires or electric shocks. In addition, an electrician can determine if there are any issues that require repair or replacement to increase the safety of the installation.

Electrical devices can become damaged over time due to aging or other factors such as flooding. This can lead to problems that affect the devices' functionality or even their functionality completely. An EICR will be able to detect the problem and help the landlord with any repairs that are required.

A EICR will also help to reduce energy costs by identifying areas where equipment is being overcharged or being used in excess. This is a great way for landlords and property managers to save money on their utility bills.

It is also a great idea for landlords to have their EICR be performed by a certified and registered electrician. This will ensure that the inspection is done to a high standard, and that any issues are identified and rectified quickly.

An experienced engineer can utilize the EICR results to make recommendations for improvements to an electrical installation. This is a fantastic method for landlords to improve the security and efficiency of their property and provide tenants with better quality electrical appliances and wiring.

MD Bespoke offers a comprehensive array of electrical services that include EICRs in Stevenage and the surrounding Hertfordshire area. Our engineers are highly skilled and are trained to provide an unbeatable level of service and professionalism at all times. Contact us today to learn more about our services, or to set up an EICR visit to your premises.

How do I get an EICR?

It is best to call an electrician with a professional license for an EICR. Before they can carry out the test, they will have to disconnect your electrical systems. After that they will examine your electrical wiring and electrical system for signs of wear and tear. This will be compared against the UK standard for security installations - BS7671 IET Wiring Regulations.

The EICR will then identify areas that require remedial work. The next step is to complete the necessary work within 28 days, or the shorter period stipulated in the report. You will need to get written confirmation from an electrical professional that the remedial work is completed. After this is completed, you will be able to contact your electrician and arrange a date for the next inspection.

Regular EICRs are important to be aware of problems before they become more serious. This can not only stop fires and injuries however, it could also save you money in the long run as you'll be able to avoid costly repairs or replacements. It's a legal requirement for landlords to perform an EICR on their property every five years. This will ensure that you are in compliance with the regulations and that your tenants are secure.


Landlords need to ensure that electrical safety is maintained in their properties. They should conduct regular inspections to ensure that all electrical equipment is safe. An experienced electrical engineer can perform an EICR when it is convenient for you and will provide a detailed report.

Landlords are required to have an EICR for all rental properties. This is a legal requirement according to the Management of Houses in Multiple Occupation Regulations (England), 2006, that every privately owned rental property has one. In April 2021, new regulations will require that all rental properties have an EICR.

Who is able to carry out an EICR?

Only electricians who are registered and have the necessary qualifications and experience can conduct an EICR. local electricians stevenage must have passed an extensive examination and have current their certifications. This is usually done in conjunction with a professional organization such as the JIB, or a recognized training provider.

Landlords are required by law to ensure that the electrics in their homes are safe for tenants to use, which is why getting an EICR carried out regularly is essential. This will ensure that any potential issues are detected early and rectified before they turn into serious issues that could cause fires or injuries.

EICR inspections are recommended for homeowners as well because electrical installations can be susceptible to degradation and damage over time. They can also be affected by environmental conditions, like flooding or extreme weather. It's a great idea to conduct an EICR before you sell your property to show your potential buyers that the electrical system is up to standard.

If you're a property owner of BTL or rented property, it's worth purchasing an EICR since BS7671 requires that the electrical system be tested at the end of each change of tenancy and at least every five year. A commercial EICR is also a good idea as it can help businesses meet their legal obligations based on the Health and Safety at Work Act. The frequency of these inspections depends on the nature and size of the business as well as the complexity of the electrical systems.