What is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
Understanding EICR
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) involves checking and testing the installation of the electrical system to confirm whether it is safe for the property owner or tenants. It enables you to identify any possible hazards that are not visible in visual inspection. Generally, it is advised to carry out an EICR every 3-5 years to ensure the safety and obedience of your electrical system to the safety regulations.
In the case of rental, you must demand EICR as it can assure the building you are paying for is totally safe. If the inspection report shows that the property doesn’t adhere to the safety regulations, the homeowner could be fined heavily.
What Does an EICR Report Show?
An EICR report exhibits a thorough condition of existing electrical systems and installations as per British Standards. The inspection will also provide suggestions for improving the safety of your house where needed.
Once the assessment and testing are complete, the contractor who conducted the report will provide you with a certificate showing the condition of the electrical installation.
The following classification codes indicate that there is some issue you need to pay attention to:
C1 Code: This shows there exist some dangers that require immediate attention. The contractor can make C1 risks safe before leaving the building.
C2 Code: This indicates potentially dangerous hazards which might not be considered very damaging during the inspection but could be really detrimental in case any fault occurs in the installation.
C3 Code: This code shows improvement is needed in electrical installation.
F1 Code: This indicates that your electrical system requires further investigation immediately.
Who Conducts an EICR Report?
A licensed and competent electrician or electrical engineer with the requisite skill set and knowledge to evaluate the safety and compliance of electrical installations in a property often conducts an ElCR. These experts have received the necessary training and have a thorough understanding of electrical systems, laws, and safety requirements.
EICR Cost
The cost of an EICR varies depending on the property’s size and the number of rooms it has, the number of electrical installations that need to be tested and the experience of the electrician.
On average, for a one-bedroom house, the report will cost around £120-£150, while the price could surpass £300 for a property with five bedrooms.
As the prices are dependent on many factors, these figures are just estimated; for an exact price idea, it is best to consult a qualified electrician.
How to Know You Need an EICR?
Electrical installations wear and deteriorate over time, leading to potential risks if left unchecked. If the problem persists, it can even lead to dangerous electrical fires, harming you, your loved ones, and your building. Therefore, regular inspection of your electrical system is important for safety.
According to BS 7671, you must follow these time intervals for the inspection of your electrical installation:
| Landlords | Every 5 Years |
| Business Owners | Every 5 Years |
| Homeowners | Every 10 Years |
Benefits of the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
Here are four key benefits of obtaining an EICR:
Safety Assurance
The fundamental goal of an EICR is to ensure the property’s and occupants’ safety. Potential electrical hazards such as poor wiring, overloaded circuits, or inadequate grounding are identified in the report. By dealing with these faults as soon as possible, the chance of electrical fires, electric shocks, and other mishaps is greatly decreased.
Regulation Compliance
EICRs are frequently necessary to meet legal and regulatory responsibilities. Many jurisdictions require property owners, landlords, and businesses to have periodical EICRs performed to ensure their electrical systems meet safety regulations. Compliance with these rules helps in the avoidance of fines and legal liability.
Early Problem Detection
EICRs require extensive testing and inspection of various electrical components such as circuits, switches, wiring, and outlets. This enables the early discovery of possible problems before they become major concerns. Minor defects should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid more significant damage and costly repairs in the future.
Insurance and Liability
Many insurance companies require an updated EICR to offer property coverage. Insurance claims relating to electrical incidents may be refused if an EICR is not provided. Furthermore, maintaining an up-to-date EICR displays a dedication to safety, thereby decreasing risks in the event of an accident or injury.
Property Value and Rental Demand
You can make your property more appealing to tenants or buyers and increase its value with a valid EICR. A property with a recent EICR indicates that the electrical system is well-maintained and safe, which can be a selling advantage for both residential and commercial areas.
Takeaway
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is very important for ensuring safety and offers many benefits to property owners and tenants. It aids in keeping you safe by early detection of the problems, hence lowering the chance of bigger issues.