An electrical installation condition report (EICR), or periodic inspection report as they used to be called are often referred to by customers as a Landlord Safety Test or Homebuyers Test.
The electrical regulations BS7671 recommend that EICR's are carried out every five years or upon change of tenancy.
BS7671 recommends having an EICR carried out at least every 10 years. It is also important to have one done if you are moving out or into a new home, if your insurance requires one or if you suspect your current electrics are old, faulty or have been subject to poor quality additions.
During an EICR, the consumer unit (fuse board), wiring and electrical accessories are thoroughly tested and inspected for faults or deviations from the Wiring Standards. Throughout the test, the following will be inspected and tested:
Many faults can’t be seen simply by looking and are only picked up during testing.
An EICR should only be carried out by a skilled and competent registered electrician with the experience to know what they are looking for.
BS7671 recommends having an EICR carried out if you:
Are a homeowner - At least every 10 years, or if you are selling or buying a property. Some insurances will also require you to have one.
If you suspect that your properties current electrics are old, faulty or have been subject to poor quality additions.
Rented homes - Landlords are required to get an EICR every 5 years or upon change of occupancy.