What is an EICR?
An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a formal document produced following a thorough assessment of the electrical installation within a property. It must be carried out by an experienced, qualified electrician or approved contractor — typically someone who holds a periodic inspection and testing qualification such as C&G 2391 and is registered with a recognised body such as NICEIC.
EICRs are widely required for rented properties, commercial premises, and any building where proof of electrical safety is needed for insurance, regulatory, or legal purposes.
Why Are EICRs Needed?
There are many reasons a domestic or commercial property may require an EICR. They are strongly recommended wherever proof is needed to confirm that an electrical installation is safe. One of the most common scenarios is rented accommodation, where an EICR is the most straightforward method of demonstrating electrical safety to tenants and local authorities.
An EICR is also recommended for all electrical installations every five years to check for deterioration — though certain circumstances require more frequent testing.
Landlord requirement: Since June 2020, landlords in England are legally required to have a valid EICR in place for all rental properties, with a copy provided to tenants and the local authority on request.
When More Frequent Testing is Required
- Age of the installation — the older the wiring, the more frequent the inspection
- Swimming pool installations — annual inspection of relevant parts required
- Harsh or damp environments — accelerated deterioration requires closer monitoring
- Change of occupancy — strongly recommended between each tenancy
- Before purchasing a property — essential due diligence before any sale
- Misuse or vandalism — any installation subject to damage should be re-tested
- Concerns about safety — if in doubt, an EICR will confirm the position
EICR Observation Codes
During an EICR, the inspecting engineer codes each observation by severity. Here is what each code means:
Danger present. Risk of injury. Immediate remedial action required — the installation should not be used until resolved.
Potentially dangerous. Urgent remedial action required as soon as possible to prevent hazard.
Improvement recommended. Not immediately dangerous but should be addressed to improve safety.
Further investigation required. Additional testing is needed to determine the severity of the issue.
What Our EICR Covers
- Continuity of protective conductors and bonding
- Ring circuit continuity and polarity
- Insulation resistance testing
- Earth fault loop impedance (Zs)
- Earth electrode resistance
- RCD performance testing
- Functional testing of isolators and circuit breakers
- Protection by barriers, separation and enclosures
Prompt issue of certification. Every EICR is professionally presented and ready to share with landlords, letting agents, insurers, or local authorities.