The difference between an EICR, an Electrical Installation Certificate and portable appliance testing, with common property scenarios. This guide is written for practical decision-making and links to the sources used for verification.
EICR: condition of an existing installation
An Electrical Installation Condition Report assesses the present condition and safety of an existing fixed electrical installation. It records test results, observations, limitations and whether the installation is satisfactory.
Landlords commonly use an EICR to meet periodic electrical safety duties. Homeowners may commission one before purchase, after concerns or where an older installation has no recent record.
EIC: certification of new installation work
An Electrical Installation Certificate is normally issued for new installation work, such as a new circuit, consumer-unit replacement or major rewire. A Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate may apply to certain smaller alterations.
These certificates describe and verify the new work. They are not substitutes for a periodic condition assessment of the entire existing installation.
PAT: portable appliances, not fixed wiring
Portable Appliance Testing concerns plug-in equipment. It does not assess the consumer unit, fixed wiring or installation earthing and therefore does not replace an EICR.
A sensible landlord safety system may include both a periodic EICR and proportionate appliance inspection or testing, depending on the equipment and risk.
- Existing fixed installation condition – EICR
- New circuit or installation work – EIC or Minor Works certificate
- Plug-in appliances – inspection and, where appropriate, PAT
Research and verification
Authoritative sources
Use these primary and specialist sources to check the current rule and read further.
Requirements can change and unusual properties may need specialist advice. Check the latest official source and the facts of the property before relying on a compliance conclusion.
