EICR is an abbreviation of the term Electrical Installation Condition Report and is a check that is carried out to test the safety and functionality of an electrical system within a building. The problem is that, since our electrical systems are mostly hidden, we easily forget about them. That is, until they go wrong, When they do, the results can be devastating.
When you learn that around 20,000 electric fires are started in homes around the UK every year, it becomes easy to see why getting an EICR is so important. Not only does the check highlight any problems within the electrical system but it will also provide the homeowner with advice on what to do to fix these problems.
It is important to understand that an EICR is vastly different from a visual check. In the latter, the electrician will look at things like the consumer unit, power sockets, cables and other aspects of the system. The person carrying out the test will look for any visible signs of damage or deterioration of the system and will determine whether it is safe to use.
In contrast, an EICR is a much more in-depth test that delivers information on whether the electrical system is compromised or damaged in any way and unlike a visual test, will involve various circuit tests. Some of the things that may be revealed include the following:
- Any potential shock hazards
- Potential fire hazards
- Problems that may result in the system overheating
- Faulty electrical work
- Problems with bonding or earthing
While this gives you a brief overview of the things that your EICR contractor will be looking at, we will go into more detail about exactly what your electrician will be looking for in the following sections.
Read more in our next article, ‘”Why Do I Need An EICR?” or click below to book an EICR or to request a quote:
