If you’re a business owner, it can be easy to get confused with all the various things that need to be done to keep your premises compliant. From PAT testing to EICR inspections, it can be hard to know what each one actually does and why it’s necessary. So, we’ve put together this article to explain what is eicr testing and what the process involves.

What Is EICR Electrical Testing?

EICR stands for Electric Installation Condition Report and, in simple terms, it is an assessment of the safety of your property’s electrical systems. A qualified electrician will look at the entire build of your electrical system, focusing particularly on signs of damage or deterioration. They’ll also carry out tests where voltages and currents are used to check the safe operation of each circuit.

These tests are usually carried out with the power turned off, however, some of the EICR tests require the power to be left on (so long as all appliances are unplugged). A residential EICR can take between 1 and 4 hours, depending on the property size, how many circuits need testing, and the ease of accessing them.

Landlords should have an EICR conducted every three to five years or at any change of tenancy. It’s also a legal requirement to provide a copy of the EICR to any new tenants who move into your property. If a landlord fails to supply an up-to-date EICR, their insurance may be invalidated should an accident occur in the property due to an electrical fault.