An accessible guide to electrical inspection, testing, power isolation, property access and information to provide before an EICR. This guide is written for practical decision-making and links to the sources used for verification.
Visual inspection and electrical testing
The inspector reviews the condition of the fixed installation, including the consumer unit, protective devices, earthing and bonding, wiring accessories and accessible circuits. Electrical tests help identify defects that cannot be confirmed visually.
The agreed extent and limitations should appear on the report. Furniture, inaccessible areas, unsafe conditions or lack of permission can restrict inspection.
Prepare occupants and equipment
Testing normally requires parts of the electrical installation to be isolated. Tell occupants in advance and safely shut down computers, servers, alarms, medical equipment or other sensitive systems. Discuss critical loads before the appointment.
Provide access to all rooms, consumer units, sockets and fixed equipment within scope. Supply previous reports, circuit charts and records of alterations where available.
- Confirm the number and location of consumer units
- Identify critical equipment before isolation
- Arrange keys and occupant access
- Report known faults or recent electrical work
- Keep pets and work areas safely controlled
After the visit
Read the outcome, observation schedule, limitations and next inspection date. If unsatisfactory, obtain a clear scope and competent quotation for remedial work or further investigation.
Do not treat the cheapest, fastest inspection as automatically good value. Adequate testing and accurate reporting take time, particularly in larger homes, HMOs and commercial premises.
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.
