An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) must always be carried out by a qualified electrician. Used to verify the integrity of an installation or potential danger and that the property complies with relevant safety legislation, an EICR certificate is essential for rental properties and can be beneficial for commercial buildings and residential homes too. In the article ‘What Is an EICR Certificate?’ we discuss what an EICR is, why it’s needed, if it’s mandatory and EICRs for commercial and residential landlords.
What is an EICR?
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EICR Reports Explained
Many people ask, what is an EICR electrical certificate, and the answer is fairly simple. An Electrical Installation Condition Report is compiled by a certified electrician after they have inspected and tested the electrical system within the specified building.
The report, published as a certificate, identifies any defects or faults, states the condition of hard wiring and accessories, provides a set of test results, and confirms the electrical system does not pose a safety risk.
Why Do I Need an EICR Certificate?
Rental residential properties are required to have an EICR carried out every five years and at the start of a new tenancy, which is why EICR certificates for landlords are in such high demand. However, both private residential homes and commercial properties can benefit from having routine EICR certificates issued too.
After all, an EICR certificate confirms the functionality and safety of electrical installations and, therefore, can give you peace of mind that your home or workplace isn’t at risk of electrical malfunctions.
EICR Vs DEIC – What Are the Differences?
A Domestic Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) is issued following new electrical installation works and it confirms that the work has been carried out per UK regulations. As such, an EIC only relates to the new installation and does not verify the functionality of existing electrical installations.
If an EIC is issued following a full rewire of a newly built property, then it may be used in place of an EICR. However, if a DEIC is issued following partial electrical works, then an EICR may still be required.
Is an EICR Mandatory?
An EICR is mandatory for residential rental properties, so EICRs for landlords are amongst the most commonly requested reports. While an EICR may not be mandatory for private residences and commercial buildings, they are still highly recommended.
EICR for Commercial Landlords
Whether you’re leasing out a retail space, office building or factory to tenants, a valid EICR will confirm that the electrical installation is safe and functional. Maximising the safety of the property, as well as putting your tenants’ safety first, can even make your commercial let more enticing to potential tenants.
EICR for Residential Landlords
As a residential landlord, you’re responsible for ensuring the safety of the property. One of your obligations is to ensure that the electrical installation within the property is compliant with relevant regulations and doesn’t pose a safety risk. By having the appropriate assessment and testing carried out and ensuring you have a valid EICR certificate in place, you can be confident that you’re meeting the legal requirements relating to electrical safety in rental properties.
How Often Do You Need an EICR?
A common question we’re asked is, how often do I need an EICR certificate, and we’re always happy to provide the information you need. For residential rental properties, an EICR certificate is required every five years and at the start of a new tenancy.
Although EICRs aren’t mandatory for private residential properties and commercial buildings, having an EICR certificate issued every five years and before a sale or new commercial let is advisable.
EICR Certificate Cost
The cost of an EICR certificate varies, depending on the size of the property. Despite this, EICR certificates are not prohibitively expensive. They are one of the most cost-effective ways to assess the quality and condition of the electrics within a property.
Get In Touch
To find out more or to request a quote for an EICR certificate, contact Pretty Wired now at 020 4542 1890, email us at info@prettywired.co.uk or send us a message here.
