Testing & Inspection: What actually happens during an EICR?

Professional Insight 6 min read

Behind the Scenes

An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) can feel mysterious - someone comes in, does things with a box and wires, and you get a report full of codes. Behind the scenes, it is a structured process: visual inspection, then a series of tests at the consumer unit and at selected points. Understanding what happens demystifies the report and helps you prepare.

The Details

The electrician starts with a visual inspection: consumer unit, cables visible at accessories, earthing and bonding. They look for damage, overheating, and non-compliant alterations. Then comes testing: earth continuity, insulation resistance (between live, neutral, and earth), polarity, earth fault loop impedance (Zs), and RCD trip times. Some tests are done at the consumer unit; others at sockets or lights.

The report uses codes: C1 (danger present), C2 (potentially dangerous), C3 (improvement recommended), FI (further investigation). C1 and C2 require remedial work before the installation can be deemed satisfactory. C3 is advisory. FI means more investigation is needed - often when parts of the installation cannot be fully accessed.

Jargon Buster

EICR - Electrical Installation Condition Report; a periodic inspection of an existing installation.
Earth fault loop impedance (Zs) - The total resistance of the path fault current takes; it determines whether protective devices will disconnect quickly enough.
Ohm (O) - The unit of electrical resistance; lower Zs means better fault protection.

The Insurance Angle

Landlords must have a satisfactory EICR for their rental properties. Homeowners often need one when selling or remortgaging. Insurers may ask for an up-to-date EICR if you make a claim. A satisfactory report - with any C1 or C2 items remedied - protects your position.

Local Building Control

EICRs are not notifiable work - they do not create or alter circuits. But the electrician must be competent (typically a member of a Competent Person Scheme or similar). In Kent, landlords must provide a copy of the EICR to tenants and to the local authority if requested.