EICR Test Procedure: Things You Should Know

If you’re a landlord or manage a company in the United Kingdom, you must acquire an Electrical Safety Condition Report (EICR) for your property. The EICR is used to demonstrate that all electrical systems are in good working order and will not cause harm to people in the future.

However, an EICR report will only be generated once a qualified electrician has conducted an EICR test procedure to verify which electrical equipment is safe and which are not. We learned that many individuals are unfamiliar with the EICR test procedure because it is a legal obligation, so we decided to share this information.

How exactly do you go about the EICR test procedure?

The first step to starting the testing process is finding a professional and qualified electrician. Finding a competent and qualified electrician might be difficult, but you’ll be grateful you went through the trouble once the work is completed. The electrician you choose to employ will have a significant impact on the efficacy of the EICR test procedure.

The procedure is quite quick and simple. The basic objective of the operation is to inspect and assess the building’s electrical wiring, systems, and installations. The electrician may use the findings from the EICR test method to determine whether or not a property is safe electrically.

It is critical that the test be done at least every five years and that it be performed by a knowledgeable and experienced electrician. It’s not something you can accomplish on your own. The electrician who performs the test must have been properly trained in order to do so safely.

There are 4 main stages

1. Visual Inspection: The first inspection that an electrician will do is a visual one. They will look at all electrical systems to see if anything needs to be repaired or replaced.

2. Dead Testing: Next stage of the EICR test procedure, the electrician will disconnect all electrical systems from the main power source in order to freely execute tests at this stage. In this stage, various examinations are performed, including insulation, polarity, and continuity checks.

3. Live Testing: The third stage of the EICR test procedure is crucial. If there’s ever an emergency, this quick shutdown system will ensure all electrical systems and installations are shut down immediately.

4. RCD Testing: The fire prevention portion of the EICR test procedure takes place during this stage. The tests are conducted on modern electrical systems, including Residual Current Devices.

How long will the EICR test procedure last?

Test procedures for different properties take varying amounts of time due to a number of difference factors, such as; size and number circuits present on the property, installation process complexity, and faults discovered during testing.

Can you fail an EICR test procedure?

The simple answer is yes. If the electrician conducting the inspection determines that parts of your home are electrically unsafe, he can label your property as unsatisfactory. He will take notes on how to correct the situation, and you must implement these fix-it procedures within 28 days. Not only do you have to take the EICR test, but you must also pass if you want to list your property for sale or rent.

Why should you regularly conduct the EICR test procedure?

New legislation now means that all landlords and business owners must have an EICR report for their properties after getting the testing procedure done. While this is a legal requirement, we’ve also highlighted some other key reasons why you should regularly conduct the EICR test procedure.

1. Safety: Since an EICR test for electrical appliances in your home checks for any potential hazards, it’s not only beneficial for your tenants and visitors–it could save lives.

2. Insurance: An EICR test is a type of accident investigation that can be used to support your claim with your insurance company. If an accident occurs, your insurers will want evidence that you took all reasonable precautions to prevent it.

3. Saving Money: By detecting problems early on, you can prevent extensive damage and save money in the long run.

If you need commercial or domestic testing (EICR Tests) in London or the South-East contact BIM Electrical today. Highly trained engineers, quality work assured.
If you need a EICR contact BIM Electrical Group for more information.

We carry out inspections thoughout London including Covent Garden, The City of London, Earl’s Court, Westminster, Charing Cross, Islington, Soho, Kensington. Call today to see if we service your area.