How Is An EICR Carried Out

What an EICR Is (and Why It Matters)

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a formal inspection and testing of the electrical installation in a property. The goal is to identify defects, assess safety, and highlight any urgent issues that could pose a risk of electric shock or fire. In the UK, landlords and property owners typically need an EICR to comply with electrical safety obligations and to provide evidence of due diligence. For homeowners, estate agents, and commercial property managers, an EICR also helps confirm the installation is in a safe condition and remains suitable for the way the premises are used.

During the process, an electrician evaluates both the visible condition of wiring, accessories, and protective devices, and the results of electrical tests carried out on circuits. The outcome is recorded in a report with clear findings and recommended actions. If you’re managing tenancies or overseeing a commercial portfolio, a professional EICR can reduce uncertainty and help you plan remedial work efficiently. At PropCert.co.uk, we help clients across the UK complete EICRs so they can meet compliance requirements with confidence.

How an EICR Is Carried Out Step by Step

Although the exact approach depends on the age, type, and condition of the installation, a typical EICR follows a structured sequence. It starts with gathering information about the property and the existing electrical system. The inspector will then carry out a combination of visual checks and electrical testing to verify that the installation is safe and operating as intended. Finally, the electrician compiles the results into a report, including classifications that indicate the severity of any issues found.

• 1) Pre-inspection preparation: The engineer will review any available information such as past EICRs, circuit details, and previous remedial works. You may be asked about relevant changes, additions, or known faults.
• 2) Visual inspection: The engineer examines consumer units (fuse boards), wiring routes, sockets, switches, lighting, earthing/bonding arrangements, and the overall condition of visible components. They also check for signs of overheating, damage, incorrect installations, or missing protective measures.
• 3) Testing and measurements: Electrical tests are carried out to verify that protective devices work correctly and that installation conditions meet safety standards.
• 4) Recording observations: Any items that require attention are documented with clear references, typically including locations and supporting notes.
• 5) Finalising the EICR report: The engineer produces an official report that summarises test results, item observations, and any recommendations for urgent or further investigation.

Because safety is the priority, testing may include removing covers where appropriate and safe to do so. If the engineer encounters areas that cannot be accessed safely or require further investigation, the report will reflect what was and wasn’t possible. For landlords and commercial owners, this matters because it affects how you interpret compliance and what actions you should take next. With PropCert.co.uk, you can expect a clear process and a report designed to support straightforward decision-making.

The Main Electrical Tests Included in an EICR

An EICR is not only a visual assessment; it includes a range of electrical checks to confirm the installation’s safety and performance. The specific tests performed depend on the system type and what is accessible, but the core objective is consistent: identify hazards and confirm protective features operate correctly. If issues are found, the report will indicate the classification so you know what must be addressed urgently. Understanding what’s typically tested can help you prepare and set expectations for the visit.

• Insulation resistance tests to check the integrity of wiring and identify potential risks caused by damaged insulation.
• Earth continuity testing to confirm that protective conductors provide proper pathways for fault current.
• Polarity and continuity checks to verify correct connections and that protective circuits behave as expected.
• Testing of protective devices to ensure circuits are protected against electric shock and overloads.
• RCD testing (where applicable) to confirm residual current devices trip within safe time limits.
• Checks related to bonding and earthing to reduce shock risk and support safe fault clearing.

In older properties, hidden wiring systems, or installations with previous alterations, the process may require additional care. Commercial premises can also have complex circuit arrangements and higher levels of electrical demand, which may influence how the tests are approached and how circuits are recorded. A properly carried out EICR ensures the report reflects the true condition of the installation rather than assumptions. This is particularly important when you’re using the outcome to satisfy compliance obligations or to make informed maintenance decisions.

EICR Outcomes, Ratings, and What Happens Next

After completing the inspection and tests, the engineer issues a report with findings and classifications. These classifications help you understand the seriousness of each observation and whether immediate action is required. You may receive a range of outcomes, from recommendations that don’t require urgent work to urgent items that must be resolved quickly. For landlords, these results can directly affect your ability to safely let the property and demonstrate compliance.

In many cases, the report includes recommendations for improvements such as upgrading old consumer units, rectifying damaged wiring, correcting earthing issues, or addressing overloaded circuits. If an “urgent” or potentially dangerous matter is identified, remedial work should be arranged without delay. Once repairs are completed, further testing may be required to confirm the installation is safe. If you want to keep timelines under control, it helps to plan remedial work as soon as you receive the EICR and not wait until the deadline approaches.

PropCert.co.uk supports clients across the UK with a range of property compliance services, so if your EICR highlights broader compliance gaps, you can address them efficiently. Alongside EICRs, we also provide Electrical Installation Condition Reports, PAT testing, fire risk assessments, asbestos surveys, gas safety certificates (CP12), and energy performance certificates (EPCs). For new-build projects and modern compliance requirements, we can also assist with SAP EPCs, air pressure testing, ventilation testing, and Part O calculations. If you need an EICR carried out, we’ll guide you through booking, access requirements, and next steps so you’re not left guessing.

Ready for your EICR? Contact PropCert.co.uk to arrange an Electrical Installation Condition Report and receive clear, compliance-focused findings for your property.