Your Ultimate Guide to EICR Testing in Leicester and Leicestershire
An electrical installation condition report (EICR) provides a clear picture of whether your electrical system is safe or has defects. With an EICR, you're in a much better position to make an informed decision about your electrical installation.
For landlords, letting agents, and homeowners across Leicester and Leicestershire, an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is more than just a piece of paper—it's a critical tool for ensuring the safety of your property and the people within it.
At 786 Electricals, we've been helping clients with their electrical needs since 2010, and our experience as electricians dates back even further. We've seen it all, from minor faults to major hazards, and we bring a host of experience and a deep skill set to every job we undertake. We understand the unique challenges faced by property owners, which is why we offer a reliable, professional, and even 24/7 emergency service when you need it most.
This blog post is your comprehensive guide to EICR testing, designed to give you clarity and confidence. We want to help you understand what an EICR is, why it's so important, and how to choose the right professional to carry it out.
What is an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)?
An EICR is a formal document that provides an in-depth assessment of the electrical installation within a property. It's like a full health check for your fixed wiring, consumer unit (fuse board), sockets, and light fittings. The primary purpose of the report is to confirm that the electrical system is safe, meets the latest regulations (BS 7671), and is suitable for its intended use.
Following a thorough inspection and series of tests, our qualified electricians will detail any and all defects, damages, or signs of deterioration. We then provide clear recommendations for any necessary repairs or upgrades, ensuring your property is compliant and safe.
Understanding the EICR Rating System
To help you quickly identify the severity of any issues, EICRs use a specific set of codes. These codes are crucial for prioritising any remedial action that may be required.
- C1: 'Danger Present' - This is the most serious code. It means there is an immediate danger to life or property. Any C1 fault requires urgent and immediate remedial action. We will always notify you immediately and, with your permission, isolate the affected circuit to make it safe.
- C2: 'Potentially Dangerous' - This indicates a potentially dangerous situation that requires urgent remedial work. While not an immediate danger, it poses a significant risk and should be addressed as a matter of priority, typically within 28 days.
- C3: 'Improvement Recommended' - This code is for issues that are not dangerous but should be improved for safety and longevity. This might include a lack of RCD protection on circuits that now require it under the latest regulations. Addressing C3 recommendations is not legally mandatory, but it's a wise investment in your property's safety.
- FI: 'Further Investigation Required' - This code is used when a conclusive assessment cannot be made without further, more detailed testing or investigation.
An EICR is considered "Satisfactory" only if no C1 or C2 codes are present. If you receive a report with these codes, the system is deemed "Unsatisfactory," and the issues must be rectified before a satisfactory report can be issued.
Common Issues We Find During EICR Testing in Leicester
After carrying out countless EICRs for properties across Leicester and Leicestershire, we’ve become very familiar with the most common issues. Here are some of the things we frequently encounter:
- Damaged Sockets and Switches: These are often a sign of wear and tear, but they can expose live wires and pose a serious risk of electric shock.
- Missing or Undersized Earthing and Bonding: Crucial for safety, these conductors provide a path for fault currents to safely dissipate. They are often found near your water stop tap and gas meter. A lack of proper earthing and bonding is a major safety concern.
- High Resistance Readings: These can prevent circuit breakers or fuses from operating quickly enough to prevent harm in the event of a fault.
- Lack of RCD Protection: Residual Current Devices (RCDs) are vital safety devices that trip a circuit in a fraction of a second if an electric shock risk is detected. Many older properties lack this essential protection on modern circuits.
- Insufficient IP Protection: The "Ingress Protection" rating of fixtures and fittings determines how well they can withstand dust and liquid. This is particularly important in areas like bathrooms or outdoors, where the wrong rating could be a serious hazard.
- Signs of Thermal Damage: Look for scorch marks or discolouration around accessories. This often indicates loose connections, which can heat up over time and are a major cause of electrical house fires.
How to Choose a Qualified Electrician for Your EICR in Leicester
The market is full of companies offering EICR services, and prices can vary dramatically. It's easy to get lost in the noise and make a decision based on cost alone, which can be a costly mistake in the long run. To ensure you're getting a professional and comprehensive service, here's what to look for:
- Insurance: A reputable electrician will hold robust Public Liability Insurance (we recommend a minimum of £2.5 million) and indemnity insurance.
- Credentials & Registration: Check if they are registered with a recognised body like the NICEIC, NAPIT or ECA. You can use the Electrical Safety First website to verify their credentials. At 786 Electricals, we are fully certified and have all the necessary insurance in place for your complete peace of mind.
- Proven Qualifications: Ask for proof of qualifications. A time-served apprenticeship and a "2391" qualification (or equivalent) are strong indicators that an electrician is qualified to carry out EICR testing.
- Transparent Quoting: Always get a written, no-obligation quotation before any work begins. This ensures you know exactly what you're paying for and helps you avoid hidden costs.
- Agree on Limitations: A good electrician will discuss the scope of the inspection with you beforehand. Limitations detail the level of inspection and testing that will be carried out and can affect the final price.
- Check Reviews: Don't just take our word for it—read our reviews on Google and other platforms. Customer testimonials are a great way to gauge a company's reliability and quality of work.
Why Choose 786 Electricals for Your EICR?
As a local Leicester-based business, we pride ourselves on providing a professional, friendly, and transparent service. We've been working with properties in Leicester, Desford, Groby, Newtown Linford, Glenfield, Woodhouse Eaves, Swithland, Quorn, Shepshed, Kirby Muxloe, Leicester Forest East, and many other areas across the county for years.
Our extensive experience, commitment to safety, and 24/7 emergency availability make us the trusted choice for landlords, letting agents, and property managers.
If you have a property in Leicester or Leicestershire and need an Electrical Installation Condition Report, don't hesitate.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quotation and ensure your property is safe and compliant.
Have Questions?
Did something in your EICR report cause concern, and you're not sure why? Get in touch with us! We're always happy to explain our observations in more detail, ensuring you have a complete understanding of your property's electrical health. We’re here to help.
