An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a professional inspection of your property's fixed electrical systems. Its goal is to assess whether your electrical installations are safe, comply with the latest regulations (BS 7671), and identify any faults or potential dangers.

Who Carries Out an EICR?

Only qualified electricians—registered with accredited bodies like NICEIC or NAPIT—should perform EICRs. Make sure to ask for their credentials and experience before hiring.

How Long Does an EICR Take?

The duration of an EICR depends on the size and complexity of the property:

• 1-2 Bed Flat: 1.5 – 2 hours

• 3-4 Bed House: 2 – 4 hours

• Commercial Property: 4 – 8+ hours

If your property has been recently rewired or maintained, the inspection may be quicker.

What Happens During an EICR?

Here’s a step-by-step overview of what the electrician will do:

1. Initial Visual Inspection

   • Check sockets, switches, light fittings

   • Look for damaged cabling or signs of overheating

   • Identify outdated installations (like old fuse boxes or rubber-insulated wires)

2. Testing Electrical Circuits

   • Continuity testing to ensure circuits are properly connected

   • Insulation resistance testing to check for leakage currents

   • Polarity checks to confirm correct wiring

   • Earth fault loop impedance to verify grounding

3. Classifying Electrical Issues
   Problems are marked using one of the following codes:

   • C1 – Immediate danger (unsafe, must be fixed immediately)

   • C2 – Potential danger (needs urgent attention)

   • C3 – Improvement recommended (not urgent but advised)

4. Documentation & Reporting

   • The electrician compiles the results in a detailed EICR document

   • Photos and diagrams may be included for clarity

   • You’ll receive a summary of all observations and recommendations

How to Prepare for an EICR

• Ensure access to all rooms, fuse boxes, and sockets

• Clear obstructions around electrical panels or outlets

• Inform tenants in advance (if you're a landlord)

• Disable sensitive equipment that shouldn’t be disconnected

After the Inspection: What’s Next?

• Satisfactory Report?
  Great! Keep the report on file and schedule the next one in 5 years (or sooner if advised).

• Unsatisfactory Report?
  You’ll need to carry out remedial work to fix any C1 or C2 issues. Once completed, a follow-up inspection or minor works certificate will confirm the repairs.

Final Thoughts

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is one of the most important tools for maintaining safety and compliance in both residential and commercial properties. Understanding the process helps you prepare and ensures everything runs smoothly.

Book your EICR with a qualified electrician today and stay ahead of electrical hazards before they become dangerous—or expensive.