Inspection and testing is a crucial part of electrical safety in residential dwellings and all commercial or industrial premises. Through inspection we can verify if electrical system is built in accordance with design and latest wiring regulations. Testing of the electrical system confirms if is build within required specifications and there is no damage to wiring during installation and installed equipment.
The inspection will check that the equipment is:
- made in compliance with the appropriate British Standards or European Standards,
- selected and installed in accordance with BS 7671
- not visibly damaged or defective so as be unsafe
Inspection must precede testing and is normally to be done with the part of the installation that is under inspection disconnected from supply.
Below are main reasons for Inspection and Testing;
- Initial verification and testing for new wiring.
- Periodic inspection and testing for existing wiring in service.
- Fault finding in case of damaged wiring
Initial verification and testing for new wiring is complete by issuing EIC certificate ( Electrical Installation Certificate). For new wiring all must comply with latest wiring regulations of BS 7671.
Electrical Installation Condition Report ( EICR ) known as Periodic Inspection is required for every domestic household and commercial premises every few years and that can vary from 1 year to 5 years depending on building type and purpose.
Additional every domestic household in private rented sector must pass EICR every 5 years maximum or every time when tenant has changed. Due to latest legislation all rented sector must comply with latest wiring regulations of BS 7671. Due to new legislation most of the rented sector will fail it’s EICR inspection, however this is not meant electrical system is not safe.
To read more about The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 press link.
For Commercial purpose building EICR must be issued maximum every 5 years or every time when tenant has changed.
For Industrial purpose building EICR must be not more than 3 years.