How to Prepare for an EICR and What to Expect

An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is one of the most important checks you can carry out on your property. It ensures your electrical system is safe, highlights any issues, and confirms compliance with the latest Wiring Regulations. But what actually happens during an EICR — and how should you prepare?

Here’s everything you need to know.

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What Is an EICR?

An EICR is a formal inspection and testing of your property’s fixed electrical installation. It looks at: • The consumer unit (fuse board) • Wiring and circuits • Sockets, switches, and lighting • Earthing and bonding • Protective devices like RCDs and RCBOs

The report identifies faults, potential hazards, or non-compliances with BS 7671:2024 Wiring Regulations.

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How Often Should You Have an EICR? • Landlords – Every 5 years (or at the start of a new tenancy). • Homeowners – Every 10 years, or when buying/selling a property. • Businesses – Every 5 years, or more often in high-risk environments (e.g. factories, medical premises).

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How to Prepare for an EICR

Preparing properly will make the inspection smoother and help your electrician carry out a thorough job. 1. Provide Access to All Areas • Ensure the electrician can access sockets, switches, the consumer unit, and key rooms. • Clear cupboards under stairs or storage areas that may contain electrical equipment. 2. Move Obstructions • Move furniture or large items blocking sockets, fuse boards, or switches. • Ensure loft hatches, meter cupboards, and plant rooms are accessible. 3. Inform Occupants • Testing requires circuits to be switched off temporarily. Let tenants, staff, or family members know so they can plan ahead. 4. Highlight Known Issues • If you’ve noticed tripping, flickering lights, or damaged accessories, point these out before the inspection. 5. Keep Previous Reports Handy • If you’ve had an EICR before, share it with the electrician. This helps identify recurring issues or changes in condition.

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What to Expect During an EICR • Visual Inspection – The electrician will first check for visible signs of damage, wear, or poor workmanship. • Testing – Circuits are tested with specialist equipment to confirm they’re safe, properly connected, and meet regulations. • Temporary Power Outages – Circuits will be turned off during testing, though power is restored once checks are complete. • Duration – A standard 3-bedroom property usually takes 3–4 hours. Larger or more complex buildings can take longer. • Report – You’ll receive a detailed written report explaining findings and giving each observation a classification code.

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Understanding the Results • Satisfactory – Your installation is safe and no urgent action is required. • Unsatisfactory – One or more C1, C2, or FI codes were found, meaning remedial works are needed.

Codes Explained • C1 – Danger Present (e.g. exposed live parts). • C2 – Potentially Dangerous (e.g. no bonding to gas/water pipes). • FI – Further Investigation Required (e.g. irregular test results needing more checks). • C3 – Improvement Recommended (not unsafe, but not up to modern standards).

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After the EICR • If your report is Satisfactory → keep a copy safe for future reference. • If your report is Unsatisfactory → remedial works must be carried out to make the installation safe. Once fixed, a new certificate or confirmation will be issued.

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Final Thoughts

An EICR is the best way to ensure your property’s electrics are safe, compliant, and fit for the future. Preparing properly makes the process smoother, while understanding what to expect gives you confidence in the results.

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Switch Electrical & Mechanical Services Ltd carry out professional EICRs across Newcastle and the North East. Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or business owner, we’ll provide a clear, reliable inspection and guide you through any remedial works required.

📞 0191 9052723 📱 WhatsApp: 07388 439427 ✉️ switchtoday@mail.com