What Does an EICR Include? (UK Guide)

1. Visual Inspection – What Gets Checked?

Every EICR starts with a thorough visual inspection. The electrician looks for obvious damage, overheating, incorrect wiring and signs of ageing that could affect safety.

• Sockets, switches, fused spurs and connection units
• Lighting points, pendants and downlights
• Visible cables and trunking for damage or overheating
• Junction boxes, terminations and enclosures
• Signs of DIY alterations or non-compliant additions

2. Electrical Safety Tests Included in an EICR

After the visual inspection, specialist test instruments are used to confirm the wiring and protective devices work correctly. Typical tests in an EICR include:

• Continuity testing – checks conductors (including CPC/earth) are properly connected end-to-end.
• Insulation resistance testing – checks the insulation between live parts and earth to reduce shock and fire risk.
• Earth fault loop impedance (Zs) – confirms the earthing is effective enough for protective devices to operate correctly.
• Polarity testing – ensures live, neutral and earth conductors are in the correct terminals at accessories and the board.
• RCD testing – measures trip times to make sure RCDs disconnect within the limits of BS 7671.

Many of these tests link directly to the requirements of the PRS 2025 EICR Update Guide.

3. Consumer Unit / Fuse Box Checks

The consumer unit (fuse box) is the heart of the installation. During an EICR the electrician will check:

• Type and condition of MCBs, RCBOs and RCDs
• Correct circuit labelling and identification
• Signs of overheating or damaged terminations
• Presence and condition of the enclosure, covers and blanks
• Suitability of the board for the installation and its environment

4. Earthing and Bonding

Proper earthing and bonding are essential to reduce shock risk. An EICR will confirm:

• Main earthing conductor size and condition
• Presence and continuity of main bonding to gas and water services
• Effectiveness of the earthing arrangement under fault conditions

5. Hazard Identification and EICR Codes

Any issues found are recorded in the report using standard EICR codes explained in our guide:

• C1 – Danger present, risk of injury. Immediate action required.
• C2 – Potentially dangerous. Urgent remedial work recommended.
• FI – Further investigation required without delay.
• C3 – Improvement recommended (non-compliance that is not deemed dangerous).

If any C1, C2 or FI items are recorded, the overall outcome of the EICR will be Unsatisfactory. Once remedial work has been completed and verified, a new Satisfactory report can be issued.

6. What You Receive in the EICR Report

At the end of the inspection and testing, you receive a written Electrical Installation Condition Report, normally in digital PDF format. This will include:

• Property address and date of inspection
• Details of the person or company carrying out the inspection
• Supply characteristics and earthing arrangement
• Schedule of distribution boards and circuits
• List of observations and associated codes
• Overall outcome – Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory
• Recommended next inspection date

7. How Often Should an EICR Be Done?

As a general guide:

• Rental properties: every 5 years, or at change of tenancy (whichever comes first), in line with PRS regulations.
• Owner-occupied homes: typically every 10 years, or sooner if there are signs of damage, tripping or other electrical problems.
• Commercial premises: intervals depend on use and risk – usually between 3 and 5 years.

Frequently Asked Questions about EICRs

Is an EICR the same as a landlord electrical safety certificate?

Yes. For rental properties in England, the PRS regulations require landlords to obtain a valid EICR at least every 5 years.

How long does an EICR take?

It depends on the size and condition of the property. A typical 2–3 bed house usually takes around 2–4 hours.

Will the power be switched off during an EICR?

Yes, some circuits will need to be turned off while testing is carried out.

What happens if my EICR is Unsatisfactory?

The report will list the issues using C1, C2 or FI codes. These items need to be rectified and, where required, verified by a further inspection or minor works certificate.

Can the same electrician carry out remedial work after the EICR?

Yes. Leicester-Spark Ltd can quote for and complete any remedial works identified on the report.