If you own, let or manage a property, you'll come across the term EICR sooner or later. It stands for Electrical Installation Condition Report, and it's the formal check of your building's fixed wiring. This guide explains what EICR testing is, how the inspection works, and how to read the report without the jargon.
For a fuller picture of your legal duties and inspection intervals, see our guide to EICR testing and compliance. Here we'll focus on the basics: what happens on the day and what the results mean.
What is EICR testing?
An EICR is a detailed assessment of the fixed electrical installation in a property. That means the wiring, sockets, consumer unit (fuse board), light fittings and other permanent parts. It doesn't cover plug-in appliances like kettles or TVs.
A qualified engineer inspects and tests the installation, then records its condition in a report. The aim is simple. Find faults, flag anything unsafe, and confirm the electrics are safe to keep using.
What is an EICR inspection actually checking?
An EICR inspection looks for four main things:
- Damage and wear that could cause a safety risk.
- Overloaded circuits or signs of overheating.
- Poor or unsafe wiring that doesn't meet current standards.
- Missing protection, such as no earthing or bonding.
The engineer works through both a visual inspection and a series of electrical tests. Together, these show whether the installation is safe or whether something needs putting right.
How does the inspection work?
The process usually follows the same order in every property.
1. Visual inspection
The engineer starts by looking. They check the consumer unit, visible wiring, sockets and switches for damage, wear or signs of overheating. Many faults are spotted at this stage.
2. Testing
Next comes the technical part. The power is switched off for some tests, so expect a short interruption. The engineer uses specialist equipment to check:
- Earthing and bonding.
- Insulation resistance in the cables.
- That circuit breakers trip correctly.
- Correct polarity and connections.
3. The report
Every finding is written up in the EICR. Each issue is given a code that shows how serious it is.
How to read your EICR report
The report can look technical, but the codes are straightforward once you know them.
- C1 – Danger present. An immediate risk. This needs fixing straight away.
- C2 – Potentially dangerous. Urgent remedial work is needed.
- C3 – Improvement recommended. Not dangerous, but worth addressing.
- FI – Further investigation required.
A report is marked satisfactory if there are no C1, C2 or FI codes. If any of those appear, the report is unsatisfactory, and remedial work is needed before it can pass.
How long does an EICR take?
It depends on the size of the property and the number of circuits. A small flat may take a couple of hours. A larger commercial building or a full block will take longer. Your engineer can give you a clear timescale before starting.
How often do you need one?
Intervals vary by property type and use. As a general rule, rented homes need an EICR at least every five years, or at each change of tenancy. Commercial and public buildings may have their own requirements. If you're unsure, ask before you book.
Why it matters
A valid EICR keeps tenants and staff safe. It also keeps you compliant and gives you audit-ready records. Small electrical faults become big, expensive problems if they're missed. Regular testing catches them early.
At UKGS, our qualified engineers carry out EICR testing across the Midlands for landlords, housing associations, councils and commercial sites.
