EICR certificate in London

An inspection determines the electrical safety and condition of a property’s wiring. Once completed, a certificate will be issued that must outline the following:

• If the wiring is acceptable, safe, or unsatisfactory.
• If any faults are found, the offending defects will be listed together with any remedial work needed or if further investigation is required.
• The date of the inspection and the due date of the next inspection.

To-Do checklist

• Make sure the property’s electrical supply is connected and not switched off by the utility company.
• Full access to all rooms within the property will be required.
• Clear away any items to allow full access to sockets, fuse boards, etc.
• Unplug all the equipment prior to the test.
• Any devices like a freezer or fridge must be turned off (keep the door closed).
• Visual signs of burning/charring (followed by an electrical test).
• RCD checks in the property.
• For any outbuildings/lighting, etc., connected to the electrical supply, please notify the electrician/engineer.
• Inform your electrician/engineer if a ladder is required to access the fuse board.
• Is the consumer unit correctly labelled indicating each circuit, i.e., power, heating, lighting, etc. it remove any guesswork?
• Let your professional know if something is faulty or in need of repair.

If available, provide previous EICR certificates /reports so that the test is proven to run consecutively. Last but not least, follow the above steps in order to avoid turning the test into a fail.

Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, It is stated that Landlords must ensure the safety of their tenants at all times (non-negotiable). Periodic inspection of the electrical installation appliances and services throughout the tenancy is mandatory.

To be clear, BS7671 (17th edition wiring regulations) strongly recommends a new EICR test every time the tenancy changes or every 5 years (and not after). The certificates prove the property has been tested by a qualified electrician. So the tenants feel peace of mind knowing that they are safe.

In the event of any personal injury resulting from an electrical failure, etc., every insurance company will request a copy of the EICR certificate before processing any claim and possibly voiding any claim without it. Landlords disregarding the importance of an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) and its regulations before a tenancy begins could be liable for financial penalties of up to £30,000. So, if you’re a landlord, stay on top of regulatory requirements and safeguard your tenants!

For domestic properties, BS7671 recommends commissioning an EICR at least every 10 years. It is necessary for everyone’s safety. Moreover, it highlights any changes needed to comply with regulations or potential dangers from old wiring and installations.