1. 1) What is an EICR?

   An EICR is a formal inspection and test of a property’s fixed electrical installation (consumer unit, wiring, sockets, switches, lighting, earthing & bonding). It confirms whether the installation is safe at the time of testing and recommends any remedial work.

   Example: Checking the fuse box (consumer unit), testing RCDs, and sampling circuits for insulation resistance and earth fault loop impedance.

   Portable appliances (kettles, fridges, etc.) are not covered by an EICR – those are checked via PAT.

2. 2) Who needs one, and how often?

   • Private rented homes (England, Wales, Scotland): at least every 5 years, or sooner if the last report says so.
   • Owner-occupied homes: typically recommended every 10 years (and also at a change of occupancy/before buying or selling).

   Example: A rented 2-bed flat that last passed in May 2021 will be due again by May 2026 unless the report set an earlier date.

3. 3) What do the EICR result codes mean?

   • C1 – Danger present: immediate risk of injury – make safe straight away.
   • C2 – Potentially dangerous: urgent remedial action required.
   • FI – Further investigation: an issue needs investigating without delay to confirm safety.
   • C3 – Improvement recommended: not unsafe, but upgrades advised.

   Overall result: Any C1, C2 or FI makes the report Unsatisfactory. Only C3 (or none) is Satisfactory.

   Example: Missing bonding to gas pipe = C2; cracked socket faceplate with live parts exposed = C1.

4. 4) What happens if my EICR is Unsatisfactory?

   Arrange remedial works, then obtain written confirmation that defects were corrected (and further testing if required). For rented homes, complete works within the period specified by the report (often within 28 days, or sooner if stated) and share confirmation with the tenant and, if requested, the local authority.

   Example: Your report shows a C2 for no RCD protection on a bathroom circuit. An electrician installs appropriate RCD protection and issues written confirmation so the installation can be re-assessed as safe.

5. 5) What does an EICR cover – and not cover?

   • Covers: fixed wiring, consumer unit, sockets, switches, light fittings, earthing/bonding, and protective devices (RCD/MCB).
   • Does not cover: portable appliances (PAT), fire alarms/emergency lighting or intruder alarms (have their own tests), EV chargers unless part of the installation being assessed, or non-electrical building defects.

6. 6) How should I prepare for the visit?

   • Ensure clear access to the consumer unit and key sockets/switches (about 1m around the board if possible).
   • Have someone available for access; secure pets; provide parking/permits if needed.
   • Expect brief power interruptions during testing – switch off computers/servers in advance.

7. 7) How long does it take, and when do I get the report?

   Duration varies by property size/complexity and by how many circuits require investigation. Reports are usually issued shortly after testing is complete, with a clear list of observations and a recommended re-test date.

8. 8) How long is an EICR valid?

   Up to the recommended re-test date stated on the report (commonly 5 years for rented homes, 10 years for owner-occupied). If significant alterations or damage occur, an earlier inspection may be recommended.

9. 9) Who can carry out an EICR?

   A qualified and competent person (e.g., registered with NICEIC/NAPIT or equivalent) who has the training, test equipment and insurance to perform inspection & testing.

10. 10) New build or recent rewire – do I still need an EICR?

    New installations are issued an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC). Your inspector sets the next inspection interval on that certificate. For rented homes, plan for a periodic inspection by the due date noted (often 5 years).

Note: Legal duties differ across the UK. Always follow the re-test date on your report and any local authority/licensing requirements.