What is EICR testing?

EICR testing plays an important role in ensuring the safety and well-being of your tenants. An important part of maintaining a safe property is keeping the electrical system safe at all times. Neglecting this could lead to severe hazards such as electrical shocks, fires, or even fatalities. This is where EICR (Electrical Installation of Condition Report) testing comes into play. It thoroughly examines your property’s electrical installations and allows landlords to keep their rental homes safe for their tenants and prevent any incidents. 

We will provide a comprehensive overview of EICR testing, including the legal obligations for landlords, and the benefits of regular testing, and by the end of this blog, you will have a clear understanding of what it is and why it is essential for your property.

Understanding EICR 

Firstly, let’s discuss what EICR testing is and why it was introduced. This is a formal document that is produced following an assessment of the electrical installation of a property. If you are a landlord of a rental property in England, you must get an ECIR every five years by law. 

The EICR was founded in 1956 as a voluntary body for the electrical contracting industry. For over 60 years, they have been assessing the competence of both domestic and commercial electricians. 

Before April 2020, electrical inspections were only required by law in England for houses in multiple occupations (HMOs). The new regulations, titled the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, were brought in on April 1, 2020. As of April 1, 2021, this requirement applies to all tenancies: new and existing.

As a landlord, it is important to carry out these tests for legal reasons as well as to ensure tenant safety and the prevention of electrical hazards.

The EICR testing process 

Now that we have a good understanding of what an EICR test is, let’s explore the process involved in carrying out these tests.

Preparation for EICR testing

When it comes to preparing for the ECIR test, choosing the right professional to conduct the test is crucial. Ensure the electrician holds relevant qualifications and has membership in recognised bodies, including the NICEIC of NAPIT. An electrician with extensive experience in conducting ECIR tests will help provide reliable recommendations. You should also check that the electrician has public liability insurance to cover any potential accidents. Lastly, it is always advisable to get quotes from multiple electricians to compare prices. 

Before the electrician arrives, there are a few pre-test checks you can do to make sure everything runs smoothly.

• Informing tenants: Notify your tenants in advance about the upcoming EICR testing. Provide them with details on the date, time, and expected duration of the inspection.
• Access to electrical installations: Ensure all areas where electrical installations are located are accessible. This includes fuse boxes, circuit breakers, sockets, and wiring.
• Checking documentation: Gather any previous electrical certificates, reports, and maintenance records. These documents can provide valuable information to the electrician and help streamline the inspection process.
• Ensuring safety: Check for any immediate electrical hazards that might pose a risk to the electrician, such as exposed wiring or faulty sockets. Address these issues beforehand if possible, and make sure all electrical appliances are switched off and unplugged where necessary.
• Preparing questions: Prepare any questions you may have for the electrician regarding the testing process, potential issues, and follow-up actions.

By carefully selecting a qualified electrician and adequately preparing for the EICR test, you can ensure a smooth and efficient inspection process. This not only helps in maintaining the safety and compliance of your property but also provides peace of mind for both you and your tenants.

How much does an EICR cost?

The cost of an EICR can vary based on several factors, including the size and type of the property, the location, and the complexity of the electrical installation. Prices can vary which is why as we mentioned above it is best to get multiple quotes and compare the prices.

The testing procedure

The EICR testing procedure begins with a comprehensive visual inspection of the property’s electrical installations. The electrician will look for obvious signs of damage, deterioration, or non-compliance with current regulations. This includes checking:

• The condition of sockets, switches, and light fittings.
• Signs of wear and tear or damage to wiring and cables.
• Any visible signs of overheating or burning.
• Ensuring that safety devices such as RCDs (residual current devices) are present and correctly fitted.

Following the visual inspection, the electrician will perform a series of tests and measurements using specialised equipment to assess the safety and performance of the electrical installations. These tests may include:

• Insulation resistance testing: Measures the insulation resistance of the wiring to ensure it is adequate to prevent electric shocks or short circuits.
• Earth continuity testing: Checks that all exposed conductive parts of the installation are properly earthed.
• Polarity testing: Ensures that connections are correctly made to prevent dangerous faults.
• RCD testing: Verifies that RCDs are functioning correctly and will trip in the event of a fault.

The final part of the EICR testing procedure involves detailed checks on the property’s wiring, circuits, and fixed electrical equipment. The electrician will:

• Inspect the main distribution board for signs of overheating, damage, or incorrect installation.
• Check circuit breakers and fuses for the correct rating and operation.
• Assess the condition and installation of the wiring, including any visible cables.
• Verify that all fixed electrical equipment, such as cookers and heaters, is safely installed and operating correctly.

Duration and disruption

The duration of the EICR test can vary depending on the size and complexity of the property. Typically:

• A small property, such as a one-bedroom flat, may take around 2 to 4 hours.
• A larger property, such as a multi-bedroom house, can take between 4 and 8 hours.
• Commercial properties, or those with extensive electrical installations, may require a full day or more.

Understanding the EICR report

The EICR report is a detailed document that outlines the findings of the inspection and testing process. Key components of the report include:

• Observations: Noted defects, damages, or areas of non-compliance.
• Classifications: Categorisation of issues based on their severity and potential impact.
• Testing results: Detailed results of the various tests conducted during the inspection.
• Recommendations: Suggested actions or repairs to address identified issues.

Observations and classifications

The observations in the EICR report are classified using a coding system to indicate the level of urgency and risk associated with each issue. The codes used are:

• C1: Immediate action is required to eliminate the risk of injury.
• C2: Urgent remedial action is needed to prevent future risk.
• C3: Issues that do not pose an immediate danger but should be improved to meet current standards.
• FI: Further investigation is needed to determine the extent of an issue.

Interpreting the results

Understanding the codes and recommendations in the EICR report is crucial for taking appropriate action.

• C1 issues: These require immediate attention to ensure safety. The electrician may take temporary measures during the inspection to mitigate the risk.
• C2 issues: These should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent potential danger.
• C3 issues: These are advisory and not mandatory but should be considered to improve overall safety and compliance.
• FI issues: These necessitate further investigation to fully understand the issue and determine the necessary actions.

By understanding the detailed observations in the EICR report, landlords can take informed actions to maintain and enhance the safety of their properties. 

Benefits of regular EICR testing

Regular testing offers an array of benefits for both landlords and tenants. From safety benefits to financial benefits, there are many reasons to carry out these tests regularly.  

It ensures tenants are safe by reducing the risk of fire and electrical shocks, helping to maintain a safe living environment. Testing regularly will also prevent the risk of costly repairs by mitigating any problems early on and enhancing the value of your property. 

By testing regularly, you are complying with regulations and ensuring peace of mind for property owners and tenants. 

Taking into consideration all of the benefits of EICR testing, it is easy to see how important conducting these tests is for you as a landlord as well as for your tenants. By selecting a qualified electrician and understanding the testing process, you can ensure your property and tenants are looked after. 

Don’t wait for an accident to happen; make sure you get your EICR tests scheduled. For further peace of mind for yourself and your tenants, invest in landlord insurance, which protects you and your property against any unexpected events. Contact us today for all of your insurance needs.