What are Electrical Installation Condition Reports and why do they matter?

21/07/2016

Nothing lasts forever and that includes electrical installations – even though we’d like them too.

Electrical installations are subject to wear and tear in much the same way as you and I. Once they start to degrade, the risk of a shock or fire increases exponentially.

This puts you, your family, your tenants, your employees, and your customers in a potentially life-threatening situation. Not to mention the risk of litigation. We live in a society where people are quick to take legal action if they have a problem or are in dispute with a company. And that’s why Electrical Installation Condition Reports are so important to maintain.
Safety first and safety lastelectrical_maintenance (7)

If you run a business, you will have to comply with Health and Safety and Insurance requirements to protect the wellbeing of your staff and customers. An important part of this is to ensure that your electrical installation is ‘fit for purpose.’ No faulty wiring, overloaded sockets or worn out accessories. Instead, a modern, efficient and safe system that meets British Standard – BS 7671 Requirements for Electrical Installations IET Wiring Regulations.
Electrical installation MOT
How do you know if your electrics are up to the job?  The simple answer to that is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), also known as Fixed Wiring Testing.

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Think of it as a ‘tune up’ for your electrical wiring and equipment. However, don’t confuse it with PAT Testing (Fixed Appliance Testing). An EICR is a detailed inspection of the internal wiring NOT the appliances.
How often should you have it done?

(these are maximum retest periods and depending on the findings these may be less)
It all depends on the type of property and to a certain extent, what activity is carried our within the property. Some people are more aware and safety conscious than others. According to guidelines issued by the Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEE), domestic residences should be inspected and tested every 10 years. Or whenever there is a change of occupancy. Commercial premises, offices, laboratories, retail and rental residential should be inspected and tested every 5 years.
Industrial premises should be inspected and tested every 3 years.

Our NICEIC qualified, experienced engineers will conduct a thorough inspection of your electrical installation, checking the wiring system, signs of wear and tear and any changes that indicate a fault or needs updating. We’ll give you a report written in Plain English with recommendations where necessary to update, repair or replace any part of your electrical installation. Doing this means that your system can continue to be used safely.

Flexible, customer-first approach
We will perform this inspection at a time to suit you and with the least amount of fuss. It can be conducted outside of normal working hours if you’d prefer – just let us know when and where.
Does your electrical installation require a check-up? If so, contact us today to book an inspection and testing on 01782 595600.

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