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In this post, we’ll take a closer look at EICR testing, including what it involves, when it’s required and how much it costs.
EICR testing checks the condition of a building’s electrics in line with the BS 7671 standard, in order to highlight:
Once complete, you’ll get an EICR certificate outlining any issues with four possible categories:
All electrical installations are subject to wear and tear over time. That’s why it’s important for everyone to have their building’s electrics checked on a regular basis. The British Standards Institute, which sets the BS 7671 standard, recommends that business owners should have an EICR every five years. The same frequency is recommended for landlords, or every time there is a change of tenancy. Finally, homeowners should book in EICR testing at least every ten years.
In addition to the basic regulatory requirements, there are several scenarios where an EICR becomes essential for maintaining electrical safety and ensuring compliance. For instance, if your business is located in an older building, the electrical installations may not be up to current standards. This increases the risk to the occupants.
Similarly, if your business heavily relies on electrical equipment, such as manufacturing plants or data centres, you should consider more frequent inspections due to the increased load on your electrical systems.
EICRs are also crucial when planning to renovate or expand your business premises. Before any major electrical work is carried out, an EICR can provide a clear understanding of the existing system’s condition, ensuring that any new installations are compatible and safe. For landlords, an EICR is not just a legal requirement but a vital tool to protect your property investment and the safety of your tenants.
For homeowners, particularly those planning to sell or rent out their properties, an up-to-date EICR can serve as a valuable selling point, providing potential buyers or tenants with assurance about the safety of the electrical installations. Even in cases where a property has had minimal electrical issues, the peace of mind that comes with a professional inspection cannot be underestimated.
This is particularly important for landlords, who are now legally required to have an electric installation condition report every 5 years. This has been a requirement for any new tenancies as of July 2020, and required for existing tenancies since April 2021. As well as obtaining the report, landlords must supply a copy to:
You’ll also need to keep a copy for future inspections and complete any work required on the report within 28 days.
EICR testing must be carried out by someone who is qualified and competent. The cost of your electric installation condition report depends on the rates of your chosen company, as well as the size and nature of the job at hand.
It’s also worth noting that the complexity of the electrical system can influence the cost of an EICR. For instance, commercial properties with advanced systems such as three-phase power or those integrated with renewable energy sources (such as solar panels) may require more detailed inspections.
Additionally, businesses operating in sectors with strict compliance requirements, such as healthcare or food production, might face higher costs due to the need for thorough and specialised testing.
Customers should also consider the age of their property’s electrical installations when estimating costs. Older properties with outdated wiring or fuse boxes may require more extensive inspections, and the costs can increase if remedial work is necessary to bring the system up to current standards. However, investing in an EICR and addressing any issues identified can significantly enhance the safety and value of your property in the long run.
Needless to say, the cost of commercial EICR testing can vary the most because of how much the sites vary themselves in size. For an accurate price please get in touch to arrange a site inspection.
There are three main benefits of EICR testing for businesses, landlords and homeowners:
Safety – Above all else, you want your building to be safe for those who use it, whether it's your staff, your tenants or you and your family.
Cost – Prevention is always better than the cure. A comprehensive electric installation condition report will uncover any potential problems before they develop into major issues. This could save you money over time by reducing the number of callouts for reactive repairs.
Peace of mind – It’s hard to put a price on peace of mind. With an EICR, you can rest assured your building is compliant with the relevant electrical standards and focus on what you do best.
Furthermore, regular EICR testing can help businesses avoid the costly disruptions that electrical failures often cause. Unexpected power outages or electrical faults can lead to significant downtime, affecting productivity and profitability. By identifying and rectifying potential issues before they lead to failures, EICRs contribute to the smooth operation of your business.
In sectors where compliance is tightly regulated, such as hospitality or care services, failing to maintain up-to-date EICRs can result in hefty fines and legal repercussions, further emphasising the importance of these reports.
For landlords, keeping up with EICR requirements can improve tenant satisfaction and retention. A well-maintained electrical system reduces the likelihood of complaints and emergency repairs, creating a better living environment. In competitive rental markets, properties with recent EICRs can stand out as safer and more reliable options, attracting quality tenants.
For homeowners, especially those considering selling their property, an EICR can add value and help speed up the sale process. Buyers are increasingly aware of the importance of electrical safety, and a recent EICR provides them with confidence that the property is safe and free from hidden issues. Additionally, addressing any deficiencies identified in an EICR before putting your home on the market can prevent delays and negotiations over repair costs.
At Volta Compliance, we specialise in electrical compliance for businesses across West Yorkshire. With comprehensive EICR testing and reports, our experienced team can make sure your business is compliant and keep all staff and visitors safe.
To book an EICR today, simply give us a call on 0113 436 0402 or email [email protected].
