Landlords Electrical Inspections & Certificates Billericay

• Only qualified Electricians can undertake Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR)
• EICR’s are required every five years or at the start of each new tenancy
• Prospective tenants and letting agents will ask for an EICR

Not Only For Landlords & Renters

EICR’s are an option for

• Homeowners
• Sellers
• Buyers

Homeowners are responsible for the condition and safety of their property and electrical system. It’s recommended homeowners have an EICR every ten years to verify their electrical system is ok and doesn’t present any danger.

Homesellers have EICR’s so they can show prospective buyers the electrical system’s ok.

Homebuyers have EICR’s to verify the condition of the electrical system.

EICR Procedure

The electrical inspection involves an Electrician visually inspecting and testing the electrical system of your property. Inspecting and testing show any damage, deterioration or faults that have developed and are potentially dangerous.

The EICR makes sure the electrical system adheres to the British Standard For Electrical Safety (BS 7671), which is “requirements for electrical installations. IEE Wiring Regulations (17th edition)”

Every circuit is tested throughout the procedure. This includes

• Consumer unit
• RCD Fuses
• Internal wiring
• Light fittings
• Plugs
• Earthing And Bonding

If any part of the system does not meet the required standard, codes are written in a report to clarify the faults.

• Code C1 – The system is dangerous and needs immediate attention; those using the system are at risk.
• Code C2 – There’s a deficiency the system isn’t dangerous for now but could become hazardous if a fault were to occur in the electrical system or connected appliance
• Code C3 – There’s a deficiency, but it’s not considered to be dangerous. Work’s recommended to enhance the safety of the installation but is not essential, and you’re under no obligation to have the work carried out.

If any of the above faults are found, the electrician will give you a price to correct the defects. If we have the parts available, we may be able to carry out repairs during the inspection. Otherwise, we’ll arrange a later date to return and undertake repairs.

Once repairs are finished and the electrical system has passed, the certification is written and issued.

EICR inspections are swift for smaller properties but will take longer on larger properties (up to 4 hours)

Optional Testing Procedures

VIR (Visual Testing & Inspection)

Landlords have the option of Visual Testing & Inspection (VIR) in the period between compulsory EICR’s. VIR’s are quick. An electrician will visually inspect the electrical system if any signs of wear or damage.

VIR’s give landlords additional peace of mind the electrical system is safe.

Electricians Will Inspect

• Consumer Unit (main fuse board) Sockets
• Plugs
• Light fittings
• Light switches
• Electrical cables or leads
• Earthing and bonding
• Extension leads
• Kitchen
• Bathroom
• Signs of wear and tear
• Visible signs of burning

A report with a recommendation is written after the inspection; the landlord then can make any recommended repairs/alterations.

PAT (Portable Appliance Testing)

Portable Appliance testing covers all the portable ‘plug-in’ appliances in your rented property. Appliances such as irons, toasters, fans, kettles etc., are inspected and tested.

While PAT testing is not a legal requirement for landlords, many opt for it anyway, ensuring their tenants and property are as safe as possible. Faulty appliances can cause accidents, injury, fires and damage. Some landlords, as such, want the added peace of mind.

PAT testing can be carried out at the start of each tenancy, simultaneously as the EICR, or periodically such as every year or two. It’s up to the landlord.

Appliances are visually inspected for wear, damage and signs of burning. Testing equipment is used for earth continuity, insulation resistance and lead polarity tests, ll show if the appliance is functioning correctly. Failed appliances may need repairing or replacing.

If you would like to book an electrical inspection, please contact us using the phone number or contact form below.