01
What an EICR assesses
An EICR concerns the condition of an existing installation. It is different from paperwork for newly installed work and from testing portable appliances. State the property use and why the report is needed so the assessor can explain the appropriate extent and arrangements.
02
Agree the extent of the EICR
Agree which areas and circuits are included, how access will be provided and what existing records are available. Limitations can affect what the report establishes. Ask how any inaccessible areas or restrictions will be recorded; a report should not be read as an unlimited guarantee about everything hidden within a building.
03
Prepare for electrical inspection and testing
Access to distribution equipment, sockets and other relevant parts may be required, and testing can interrupt the supply. Discuss timing and sensitive equipment in advance. For an occupied or rented property, arrange a responsible contact and make sure the people using the premises understand the agreed access requirements.
04
EICR findings and remedial work
Findings guide the next step. Report codes distinguish danger present (C1), potential danger (C2), further investigation without delay (FI) and improvement recommended (C3). Ask the assessor to explain each observation in context. A C3 observation alone does not make a report unsatisfactory. Remedial work and any further investigation need a clear scope.
05
Request an EICR for your property
Provide the property type, approximate size, use and any previous report. Explain whether the request relates to ongoing property management, a purchase or a specific concern. Ask what the inspection price includes and how subsequent work, if needed, will be quoted and documented.
Electrical service questions
Questions about electrical condition reports
Does an EICR include repairs?
Not automatically. The inspection identifies findings within its scope. Ask whether remedial work is excluded and how any necessary repairs or further investigation will be arranged.
What can limit the extent of an inspection?
Access restrictions, unavailable areas and agreed exclusions may limit assessment. Discuss these beforehand and read the limitations recorded in the report.
What should I ask about an unsatisfactory report?
Ask which observations caused the outcome, what action is required and how it will be evidenced. Do not assume every unsatisfactory report means a full rewire.
