When it comes to an EICR, it is not uncommon to have questions – whether that is ‘when do you need an EICR?’, ‘how long does an EICR take?’ or even ‘what does an EICR stand for?’.
To help, we have put together our informative guide to answer a few crucial questions regarding EICR to ensure you know what the process involves.
What does EICR stand for?
EICR stands for Electrical Installation Condition Report.
What is an EICR?
An EICR is a report highlighting the results of various tests conducted on a property’s electrical system and whether it is safe to operate. The report also covers the current condition of all electrical installations and highlights any potential safety issues.
When do you need an EICR?
Business owners and landlords should have an EICR conducted every five years or, in the case of landlords, after a change of tenancy.
Homeowners should typically conduct an EICR once every ten years. However, if the property has a swimming pool, it is often recommended an EICR be undertaken every year due to the risks of involved with electricity and large volumes of water.
What is the EICR process?
The EICR process involves several steps, all of which should be conducted by a qualified electrician who will know what to look for when it comes to quality, performance and safety.
The first step involves a visual inspection of all the electrical equipment on the premises to check for damage. Once the visual inspection is complete, the electrician will disconnect all electrical equipment from the power supply to test specific components for issues. Next, live electrical testing is performed as this helps to ascertain that if there is a fault, the system would automatically disconnect.
Finally, the engineer will check that the earthing and bonding systems are safe, as well as undertaking a final inspection of all electrical equipment, such as sockets, switches and outlets.
How much does an EICR cost?
The cost of an EICR typically depends on the size of the property. The price for a single, one-bedroom flat will often be around £160, while for a five-bedroom property, the cost can rise to up to £250.
Can you fail an EICR?
Yes, it is possible to fail an EICR. If the property fails, there are two options – either the issues which led to the failure are fixed immediately, or the property is closed.
What are the typical outcomes of an EICR?
Once all testing is complete, if the property passes, the property owner will receive their EICR with either a satisfactory or unsatisfactory rating. The report will also contain detailed information in regard to the condition of the electrical equipment.
How long does an EICR take?
Much like with the cost of an EICR, the length of time it takes to perform an EICR depends on the property size. However, the average time to carry out an EICR is usually between the 3-4 hours.
EICR Overview: Final Thoughts
We hope our article has helped answer any questions you might have had about an EICR. Here at A & J Bartlett Ltd, our experienced electricians conduct electrical testing and inspections, including EICRs, in Ashby de la Zouch and the surrounding areas. To learn more or book an appointment, get in touch by calling us on 01530 412504 or email info@aandj-bartlett-ltd.co.uk.
