Durham Electrics recommend that you carry out electrical installation condition reports rather than visual condition reports.  This is because these reports include testing which can provide much more information about the condition of the electrical installation including whether there could be the potential of hidden damage to equipment such as broken cables.

 

Why is an EICR required?

Electrical installation deteriorate with use and age and that is why it is important to periodically check the installation so as to reduce the risk of harm or injury to occupants / employees or members of the public.  The maximum frequency of these checks depend upon the type of premises but you maybe required to carry out checks in between for the following reasons:

 

• When it is a requirement implied by Licensing Authorities, Public Bodies, Insurance Companies, Mortgagors and Landlords.

• On a change of ownership or tenancy of the let premises.

• On a change of use of the premises.

• In the event of any significant change in the electrical loading of the installation.

• Where there is a reason to believe that damage may have been caused to the installation.

 

Electrical Installation Condition Inspection involves the following:

• Gaining access to various parts of the electrical installation in the premises (including, where appropriate, areas such as accessible loft spaces / voids), and buildings outside, such as the garages or sheds;

• Checking there are no signs of burning of any of the electrical equipment;

• Gaining access to any earthing or bonding safety clamps. These clamps may be fitted to the water and gas pipes (where they enter the property). In general, green and yellow cables connect between the clamps and electrical equipment, such as the distribution unit (fuse box);

• Removing and replacing covers from a sample of accessories, such as light switches and sockets;

• Removing and replacing the cover of the distribution unit (where testing is to be performed);

• Running a test lead around the property during testing;

• Unplugging or switching off almost all electrical equipment. One of the reasons for this is to prevent sensitive electronic equipment (such as light dimmer switches, washing machines or televisions) from getting damaged during testing;

• Switching the electricity supply to the distribution unit and individual circuits on and off (several times and for various periods of time);

• Checking for the presence of warning labels, instruction labels and circuit charts associated with the installation;

• Recording the test results and any relevant information relating to the inspection;

• Carrying out the necessary remedial work (if you agree to this) to make safe any dangers found in the installation, for example, if there is a bare live wire or connection.

 

What are the maximum periods allowed between Testing & Inspections?

 

Home Owners 

You check your gas installations once a year but neglect one of the biggest risks of house fires - electrics.  You should look to have your installation checked at least once every 10 years.  Durham Electrics strongly recommends carrying out electrical installation condition reports to properties intended to purchase / sell. 

 

Landlords

Whether you rent out one or several properties we can offer competitive prices for ECIR’s on your portfolio. Durham Electrics also provides electrical testing for communal areas under the commerical landlord responsibility.