If you own or manage a property in Accrington or the surrounding areas, ensuring your electrical systems are safe and compliant is essential. One of the most important tools in maintaining electrical safety is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).
As an experienced electrician in Accrington, we are often asked: When do I actually need an EICR? This guide will walk you through exactly what an EICR is, who needs one, how often, and why it matters.
What Is an EICR?
An EICR is a formal report issued by a qualified electrician following a detailed inspection and testing of your property’s fixed electrical installation. This includes the consumer unit (fuse board), wiring, sockets, switches, light fittings and protective devices.
The aim of the report is to:
- Identify any safety issues
- Highlight non-compliance with current wiring regulations (BS 7671:2018)
- Recommend improvements or remedial work
- Determine whether the installation is safe for continued use
Unlike a visual inspection or PAT testing, an EICR is comprehensive and involves both live and dead testing procedures.
Who Needs an EICR – and How Often?
The need for an EICR depends on the type of property and how it is used. Below is a breakdown of when you are likely to need one.
Homeowners
- Recommended every 10 years as part of general maintenance
- Before buying or selling a property, to check the condition of the electrics
- After major renovations or if you suspect damage to the system
- If your installation is over 25 years old and has never been tested
Although not a legal requirement, having an up-to-date EICR is a sensible and cost-effective way to protect your home, family and investment.
Landlords
Under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020:
- You must have an EICR carried out every 5 years
- A copy of the report must be given to new tenants before they move in
- Existing tenants must receive a copy within 28 days
- Any remedial work must be completed within 28 days, or sooner if specified
Failure to comply can result in financial penalties, voided insurance, or more serious legal action.
Businesses and Commercial Properties
Commercial and industrial premises are typically required to have an EICR:
- Every 5 years (or as recommended based on the environment)
- As part of routine safety checks, insurance renewals or audits
- Following a change of occupancy, usage or layout
Workplaces carry additional responsibility under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 to ensure systems are maintained in a safe condition.
Other Signs You May Need an EICR Sooner
Even if your property is not due for a routine inspection, there are several signs that could suggest an EICR is needed:
- Frequent tripping of the circuit breakers or RCDs
- Flickering lights or buzzing from sockets
- Burn marks around switches or outlets
- A fuse board that looks outdated or lacks modern protection
- You’ve had DIY work or alterations done recently
- You’re experiencing power loss or overheating
If in doubt, it is always worth getting a qualified electrician to assess the situation.
What Happens During an EICR?
When you book an EICR with Earthed Electricians, one of our fully qualified, NICEIC-approved electricians will:
- Inspect the condition of all visible electrical components
- Test the circuits to check continuity, polarity, insulation resistance and earth fault loop impedance
- Identify and code any issues using the standard classification system:
- C1: Danger present – immediate action required
- C2: Potentially dangerous – urgent action recommended
- C3: Improvement recommended – not unsafe but should be addressed
- Provide a full written report and explain the results
- Quote for remedial work, if necessary
If the report is unsatisfactory, the installation must be brought up to standard before it can be declared safe.
Why It Matters
Electrical faults are one of the leading causes of fires in UK homes and commercial buildings. An EICR gives you peace of mind that your property is safe and helps prevent serious risks from developing.
For landlords and business owners, it is also a legal duty. Regular EICRs demonstrate that you have taken reasonable steps to protect tenants, staff, customers and visitors.
If you are planning to sell or rent out your property, an EICR is also a valuable tool in making your property more attractive and compliant.
Book Your EICR with a Trusted Electrician in Accrington
At Earthed Electricians Ltd, we carry out reliable, fully certified EICRs across Accrington, Blackburn, Burnley and the wider North West. With over 20 years of experience and NICEIC accreditation, we deliver accurate, honest reports with clear advice and no hidden costs.
To book your inspection or request a quote, call us on +44 7817 480159 or email info@earthedltd.co.uk. We are happy to help.
