What Would Fail an EICR?

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a detailed inspection document that assesses the safety and compliance of electrical installations in a property. This vital report identifies any faults or risks associated with the electrical system, which could pose safety hazards to the residents or property.

For homeowners, landlords, and tenants, understanding the purpose of an EICR is crucial. Not only does it help ensure electrical safety within the home or rental property, but it also plays a critical role in meeting legal obligations. Landlords, for instance, must comply with the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, which mandates regular EICR inspections to ensure the safety of tenants.

What is an EICR?

An EICR is conducted by a qualified electrician and provides an in-depth assessment of the electrical installation's safety. During the inspection, the electrician evaluates various components of the system, including wiring, consumer units, fuse boards, and other electrical installations. The electrician checks for signs of wear, outdated wiring, and issues that could lead to electrical faults or hazards.

The EICR report contains essential information, such as:

• The overall condition of the electrical installation.

• Identified faults and their severity.

• The need for remedial work or upgrades.

The electrician will also verify whether the installation complies with the latest regulations, such as the 18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671). Based on these findings, the electrician will issue either a satisfactory or unsatisfactory report.

Legal Requirements for EICRs

In the UK, EICRs are legally required for specific properties, particularly rental properties. As part of the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords are required to ensure that their rental properties undergo EICR inspections at least every five years. These inspections must be carried out by a qualified electrician, and the results must be provided to tenants and local authorities.

Not having a valid EICR or failing to address issues identified in the report can result in significant penalties. Landlords who fail to comply with the regulations may face fines of up to £30,000. Moreover, tenants could be at risk of electrical accidents if potential hazards are left unaddressed.

Frequency of EICR Inspections

How often an EICR should be conducted depends on the type of property and its use. In general:

• For rental properties, a new EICR should be conducted at least every 5 years.

• For owned homes, it is recommended to have an EICR conducted every 10 years, or more frequently if significant electrical work has been carried out.

• For commercial properties, inspections may be required more often, depending on usage and the number of people occupying the space.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failing to obtain a satisfactory EICR can result in serious consequences. In rental properties, failure to comply with the regulations can lead to:

• Fines: Landlords who fail to provide a valid and up-to-date EICR risk fines of up to £30,000.

• Tenant Safety Risks: Not addressing electrical safety issues in time can lead to potential electric shocks, fires, or other dangerous situations.

• Insurance Problems: In the event of an electrical accident, the lack of a valid EICR could impact an insurance claim.

It’s essential to conduct regular EICR inspections to mitigate these risks and maintain both legal compliance and the safety of all residents.

6 Common Reasons for EICR Failures

When an EICR report is unsatisfactory, it often highlights critical safety issues that need addressing. Below, we explore the six most common reasons that could lead to a failed EICR:

1. Lack of RCD Protection

Residual Current Devices (RCDs) are crucial for electrical safety, especially in high-risk areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. These devices automatically cut off power in the event of an electrical fault, reducing the risk of electric shock. If an electrical installation lacks adequate RCD protection, the property will likely fail the EICR inspection.

2. Inadequate Earthing and Bonding

Earthing and bonding are fundamental to electrical safety. They provide a path for electrical current to flow safely to the ground in the event of a fault, preventing electrocution. If the earthing and bonding are inadequate or missing, the system could pose significant risks, resulting in a failed EICR.

3. Outdated or Damaged Wiring

Old or damaged wiring can become a serious hazard, leading to electrical fires, shock risks, or system malfunctions. Over time, wiring insulation can deteriorate, causing potential faults in the system. If your electrical installation uses outdated wiring that doesn’t meet current regulations, your EICR will likely be unsatisfactory.

4. Faulty Electrical Fixtures

Faulty sockets, switches, or light fittings are another common reason for EICR failures. These components can deteriorate over time, leading to overheating or electrical short circuits. An electrician will check for signs of wear and tear or any faulty fixtures that could cause harm.

5. Overloaded Circuits

Circuits that are overloaded with more current than they are designed to handle can become a fire hazard. An electrician will check the electrical installation’s circuits to ensure they are not carrying excessive loads. If they are, remedial work will be necessary to bring the system back into compliance.

6. Improper Installations

DIY electrical work or substandard installations that don’t meet modern standards often fail the EICR inspection. Non-compliant installations can pose serious risks to the safety of the property. It's essential to ensure all electrical installations are carried out by a qualified electrician to guarantee safety and compliance with regulations.

How to Prepare for an EICR Inspection

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is essential for ensuring that your electrical system is safe and compliant with current standards. Whether you're a homeowner, landlord, or business owner, preparing for an EICR inspection can help you avoid unexpected findings and ensure the continued safety of your property. Below are the key steps you should take to prepare for an EICR inspection and make the process smooth and efficient.

Pre-Inspection Checklist

Before an EICR inspection, a little preparation can go a long way. Here's a checklist to guide you:

• Ensure Access to All Areas: Inspectors need access to the entire electrical system, including fuse boxes, socket outlets, and any areas where wiring or connections are visible. Make sure these areas are unobstructed and accessible.

• Check for Visible Damage: Walk around your property and look for any obvious signs of wear or damage, such as frayed wires, scorched outlets, or malfunctioning light fixtures. These could lead to an unsatisfactory condition report.

• Label Electrical Components: If your system is particularly complex, labeling your fuse box or circuit breakers can help the inspector quickly identify and assess the electrical installations. This is particularly useful in larger properties.

• Turn Off Non-Essential Appliances: Before the inspection begins, it’s best to turn off all non-essential electrical appliances. This will help prevent interference during testing and minimise unnecessary energy consumption.

• Check RCD Protection: Make sure that the Residual Current Devices (RCD) are in good working condition. RCD protection is crucial for preventing electrical shocks, so it’s important that they’re operational. An inspector will look at the RCD as part of the overall electrical installation condition.

Hiring Qualified Electricians

An essential step in preparing for an EICR inspection is hiring a qualified electrician. Always ensure that the professional conducting the inspection is certified and experienced. A qualified electrician will have the necessary training and certifications to carry out thorough inspections and identify potential safety hazards.

In the UK, electricians must be registered with an accredited body such as NICEIC or NAPIT. This ensures they are following the appropriate safety standards and regulations. Choosing a qualified professional will also provide you with peace of mind that the inspection and any subsequent remedial work will be done according to legal requirements and industry standards.

Understanding the Report

Once the EICR inspection is complete, the electrician will provide you with a detailed report outlining the findings. It’s crucial to understand how to interpret the EICR results, as this will guide any necessary remedial actions.

The report will include codes that identify the severity of any issues found:

• C1 (Danger Present): These issues require immediate attention as they pose an immediate risk to health or safety. For example, exposed live wires or faulty fuse boxes could fall into this category.

• C2 (Potentially Dangerous): These faults are not immediately hazardous but need to be addressed to avoid future problems. For instance, non-compliant socket outlets or missing RCD protection may fall under this category.

• C3 (Improvement Recommended): These are generally non-critical issues that don't necessarily pose an immediate danger but should be addressed for future safety and efficiency. An example would be outdated electrical installations that need to be modernised to meet current safety standards.

An accurate understanding of the EICR codes is essential for taking the right action. Your electrician should be able to explain the meaning of each code and what steps you need to take to rectify any issues.

Remedial Actions

If the EICR identifies any faults or potential risks, remedial work will be necessary. These actions may include upgrading your fuse box, adding RCD protection where it is missing, or addressing faulty socket outlets.

Once an issue has been identified, it’s important to prioritise safety. Depending on the severity of the findings, remedial work should be completed as soon as possible. An experienced, qualified electrician will carry out the necessary repairs, ensuring that your electrical installation meets the required safety standards and complies with the condition report.

Preventing Future EICR Failures

Now that you understand how to prepare for an EICR inspection and address any immediate issues, the next step is to ensure that your electrical system remains in good condition moving forward. Taking proactive steps can help prevent future EICR failures and ensure the continued safety of your property.

Regular Maintenance

Scheduling regular electrical inspections and maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent issues from arising. Regular checks can identify minor faults before they become major problems, allowing you to address them early on. By staying on top of routine maintenance, you ensure that your electrical installations remain in optimal condition and compliant with the latest safety standards.

It’s recommended that properties, especially older ones, undergo EICR inspections every 5 years for homeowners and every 5 years or upon tenant change for landlords. Regular maintenance can also include checking your fuse box, ensuring RCD protection is functional, and verifying the condition of socket outlets.

Upgrading Electrical Systems

Electrical systems, like other components of your property, have a lifespan. Over time, installations can become outdated or worn out. Upgrading your electrical installations to meet modern safety standards is not just a legal requirement, but also a way to ensure the safety and reliability of your home or business.

For example, upgrading your fuse box or adding new socket outlets can significantly improve the safety of your electrical system. Newer installations are designed to be more energy-efficient and provide additional safety features, such as RCD protection, which is vital for preventing electrical shocks and fires.

Staying Informed

Electrical safety regulations are subject to change, and it’s important to stay informed about the latest updates. The regulations surrounding electrical installations, such as those related to RCD protection or the installation condition report, may evolve, and understanding these changes will help you ensure your property complies with the law.

By keeping up to date with these regulations, you can ensure that your electrical system remains compliant with legal requirements and that you avoid any future EICR failures due to outdated installations.

Educating Occupants

If you are a landlord or property manager, educating your tenants or family members about safe electrical practices is an essential part of preventing electrical accidents. Simple practices, such as not overloading socket outlets, ensuring that appliances are turned off when not in use, and reporting any signs of electrical issues immediately, can significantly reduce the risk of future problems.

Being proactive about electrical safety and educating those who use the property is just as important as maintaining the electrical installations themselves. A well-informed household or workplace is far less likely to encounter issues that could lead to EICR failures.

Conclusion

Preparing for an EICR inspection and taking steps to prevent future failures are essential for maintaining electrical safety in your property. By following the steps outlined in this blog, such as ensuring access to all areas, hiring a qualified electrician, and understanding your EICR report, you can ensure that your electrical system is in top condition.

Regular maintenance, upgrading electrical installations, staying informed about safety regulations, and educating occupants are all important aspects of preventing future EICR failures. By taking these proactive measures, you not only ensure the safety of your property but also reduce the risk of costly repairs and non-compliance.

Global Compliance offers expert services to ensure that your electrical installations are fully compliant with the latest regulations. With a qualified team of electricians, we can help you secure a satisfactory EICR, preventing costly fines and ensuring the safety of your home or rental property.

For more information or to book an EICR inspection, contact us today.