How to obtain an Electrical Installation Condition Report

To get an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), you must hire a qualified and competent electrician to inspect and test the fixed electrical systems in your business premises. This report is a legal requirement if you are a landlord and a fundamental part of your health and safety duties for any commercial property, ensuring the safety of your staff, customers, or tenants.

What is an EICR?

Think of an EICR as an ‘MOT’ for your property’s electrical wiring and installations. It’s a formal inspection carried out by an electrician to check that everything is safe and functioning correctly. The report will identify any defects, damage, or wear and tear that could become a hazard. It covers all the ‘fixed’ electrics, including fuse boards (consumer units), wiring, plug sockets, light fittings, and switches.

Why is it so important?

Beyond being a specific legal requirement for landlords in the private rented sector, an EICR is a key part of your general duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. It demonstrates that you are taking appropriate steps to prevent danger from electrical systems. Many business insurance policies also require you to have a current and ‘satisfactory’ EICR as a condition of cover.

How to get your EICR: A step-by-step guide

1. Find a qualified electrician: This is the most critical step. The electrician must be ‘competent’ to carry out the inspection. The easiest way to ensure this is to use an electrician registered with a government-approved scheme like the NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA. Always ask to see proof of their registration.
2. Arrange the inspection: The electrician will need access to all parts of your property. Be aware that they will need to turn off the power for a period to carry out the tests safely, so plan for this disruption. The inspection can take several hours, depending on the size and complexity of your property.
3. Receive and understand the report: The report will classify the condition of your electrics as either ‘Satisfactory’ or ‘Unsatisfactory’. If it’s unsatisfactory, the report will detail the issues found, using specific codes:
   • C1 – Danger present. Risk of injury. Immediate action is required.
   • C2 – Potentially dangerous. Urgent remedial action is required.
   • FI – Further investigation required. The inspector has found something they couldn't fully assess.
   • C3 – Improvement recommended. This is an advisory note for a non-compliance that doesn't pose a danger.
4. Complete any necessary repairs: If your report lists any C1, C2, or FI faults, you must have them fixed by a qualified electrician. Once the work is done, they will issue you with separate paperwork, like a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate, which proves the issues have been resolved. You must keep this with your EICR report.

How often do I need one?

For private rental properties, an EICR must be carried out at least every five years. For other commercial premises, the frequency is typically also five years, but it can be shorter for high-risk environments. Your electrician can advise on the appropriate interval for your specific business type.

Top Tip: Keep your EICR certificate and any repair documents in a safe place alongside your other essential business paperwork, like your insurance policy and lease agreement. You’ll need to provide it to local authorities or your insurer if requested.