A 'satisfactory' electrical report still has a defined scope. Find out how to read an EICR limitation and what to ask if an area was inaccessible. This guide is written for practical decision-making and links to the sources used for verification.
A report is about the installation actually examined
An EICR arrives marked satisfactory, but the landlord notices that a locked storeroom was not opened. Does the result cover that room? The answer lies in the report's 'extent and limitations' section. It should say what fixed installation was included and identify any agreed or operational limits on inspection and testing.
A limitation is not a failed test, but it is not a pass for unseen wiring either. Electrical Safety First's Best Practice Guide says limitations and their reasons must be recorded. Unnecessary exclusions reduce the report's usefulness. For private rented homes, it says there should generally be little need for limitations beyond standard ones.
Agreed and unexpected limits are different
An agreed limitation may be an area known to be inaccessible when the inspection is booked. An operational limitation may only become apparent on site—for example, a supply or circuit that cannot safely be isolated at that time. The inspector should record the reason, not merely type 'limited inspection'. If access can be arranged later, ask what follow-up inspection or testing is needed.
Read the circuit schedule and observations alongside the limitation. Do not assume a satisfactory overall assessment confirms equipment or circuits expressly excluded. Equally, a limitation does not automatically mean the whole installation is dangerous; a qualified person must interpret the findings in context.
- Find the exact area, circuit or test that was limited
- Ask why it was limited and whether the reason still applies
- Arrange access or safe isolation for a follow-up where appropriate
Prevent the problem before the visit
Give the inspector keys, tenant access arrangements, consumer-unit location and information about alarms, critical equipment or business operations that could affect isolation. Discuss any likely restrictions before agreeing the quote. The completed EICR should still be read in full: outcome, observations, schedules and limitations all matter.
CertifyEPC can arrange an EICR for a London property. Tell us about difficult access or equipment that cannot easily be switched off so the qualified inspector can plan a useful inspection and explain the scope.
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.
