EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report)

What is EICR (Electrical installation condition report)?

An EICR is an inspection of the condition of an existing electrical installation, to identify (in order of priority) any deficiencies against the national safety standard for electrical installations.

EICR will:

  • Reveal your electrical system’s conditions
  • Find any potential electrical shock risks and fire hazards in your electrical installation
  • Identify any defective DIY electrical work
  • Highlight any lack of earthing or bonding

Moreover, the EICR test is very important for your electrical system and equipment. It is proof that your property is safe or not. A schedule of circuits will also be provided, which is invaluable for a property.

 

Why is EIRC or periodic inspection needed?

Every electrical installation deteriorates with use and age. It is important for the person responsible for the maintenance of the installation to be sure that the safety of users is not put at risk, and that the installation continues to be in a safe and serviceable condition.

When you should do your periodic inspections?

We recommend periodic inspections and testings:

– 10 years for a domestic installation

– 5 years for a commercial installation

– 3 years for caravans

– 1 year for swimming pools

Other instances when a periodic inspection should be carried out are:

– Before entering the new tenance

– Prior to selling a property or when buying a previously occupied property

Who should undertake EICR?

You should do your EICR by a competent electrician.

 

 

What happens during EIRC?

The electrician will check the electrical installation against the requirements of BSi7671 – Requirements for Electrical Installations ( IEE Wiring Regulations) – as amended, which is the national safety standard for electrical installations, and contains around 850 Regulations.

The periodic inspection will take into account all relevant circumstances including the following factors:

a) Adequacy of earthing and bonding

b) Suitability of the switchgear and control gear e.g. consumer unit e.g. an old fusebox with a wooden back, cast-iron switches, or a haphazard mixture of such equipment is likely to need replacing

c) Serviceability of equipment e.g. switches, socket-outlets, and light fittings e.g. older round pin sockets, round light switches, and braided flex hanging from ceiling roses to light fittings, black switches, and sockets mounted in skirting boards may require replacing.

d) Type of wiring system and its condition e.g. cables coated in black- rubber, black rubber was phased out in the 1960s or cables coated in lead or fabric are even older and may need replacing (modern cables use PVC insulation)

e) Provision of residual current devices for socket outlets that may be used to plug in electrical equipment used outdoors

f) Presence of adequate identification and notices

g) The extent of any wear and tear, damage, or other deterioration

h) Changes in use of the premises which have led to, or might lead to, deficiencies in the installation.

The electrician will provide a periodic inspection report (PIR) as part of the periodic inspection.

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