Did you know all homes need an electrical installation condition report (EICR) – does yours have one?
Electrical faults aren’t something to be blasé about. Statistics are always scary, but the numbers don’t lie.
70 people have lost their lives and a further 350,000 people are seriously injured each year due to electrical faults. Electrical Safety First stated that electrical faults are the cause of almost half of accidental UK house fires. You can never be too careful when dealing with electricals, isn’t it always better to be safe than sorry?
What exactly is an EICR?
It really is just like taking your garage to the car or getting your boiler serviced. An approved registered contractor can be found on the Electrical Safety Register and can reassure you that your electricals are safe.
An EICR is a safety certificate which is supplied by the electrician with reports after they have conducted an inspection ensuring the safety of your electricals in your home.
The report identifies any damages, deterioration, defects, and/or conditions that may cause danger in the future, whilst providing observations for areas in which improvement is recommended.
At Bowling Garrard, our main objective of this testing is to ensure whether or not the current electrical installation is fit for purpose and if you can continue using it at home without any risk. Subsequently, if it is not safe, the contractor will be able to detect any hidden defects or issues that need immediate attention or if they can be left to a later date.
Bear in mind, this isn’t just a basic test, it goes further than just checking whether or not the lights come on or if it’s still making that funny noise. An ECIR looks at the underlying electrical system, i.e. the fuse board, the wiring, and earth bonding, all things you cannot see but could be a huge risk if not monitored regularly.
How Does It Work?
Your registered electrician will visit your property, conduct a visual assessment, and carry out a series of important checks on your electrical systems.
The visual assessment allows the electrician to note any visible signs of defects, damage, or deterioration. If the electrician finds any ‘code one’ problems, i.e immediately dangerous issues, they will firstly arrange to fix them right there or put in short term measures to make it safe until it can be fixed.
After that, a note of any ‘code two’ problems that are potentially dangerous will be made along with a quotation to fix those issues. They will also provide you with a note of any ‘code three’ dangers which are the only recommendations and not deemed unsafe.
What you can expect the electrician to look at during the visual assessment:
All In A Day’s Work!
It is generally recommended that an EICR is carried out every ten years (five for privately rented accommodation) or when there is a change of occupancy.
It usually takes around 3-4 hours for the registered electrician to complete their checks this depends on the size of the property and also the number of circuits that require testing.
It is a very simple and easy way to put your mind at rest, it only takes a few hours and then you’re good to go!
Do I Need An EICR?
The simple answer is yes. If you fail to check and maintain your electrical systems and circuits, it is possible that insurance companies can use this as a reason to void any claims made if they are the result of an electrical fault.
How Can I Prepare For An EICR Check To Be Carried Out?
Firstly, if you can help it, don’t work from home! Your electrician will need to turn off the power before working on the electrical wiring. It might be more beneficial to leave the electrician to their work whilst you go out for the day or go to work yourself!
Free up access to all lights, plug sockets, and switches. Don’t forget the loft or the under stairs cupboard!
Who Should I Let Carry Out My EICR Check?
You must research the correct qualifications an electrician needs before they carry out any checks in your home!
Alongside checking the Electrical Safety Register, you can also search for a registered electrical contractor in your area on NICEIC or ELECSA and enter your postcode!
What to do next?
Here at Bowling Garrard, we can provide your home or business premise with the correct Electrical Condition Installation Report, so you can rest easy knowing you and your loved ones are as safe as possible.
We pride ourselves on the customer service we deliver and won’t settle until you are satisfied!
Call us today to speak to one of our expert team members on 01206 542285 or email us at sales@bowlinggarrard.co.uk
