What is an EICR?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a thorough inspection and test of the electrics already in a property. It tells you whether the installation is safe to keep using, and what, if anything, needs putting right. It is sometimes called a periodic inspection or an electrical safety certificate.
We carry out EICRs for homeowners, people buying a house, landlords and businesses across Derby and Derbyshire.
What we check
- The consumer unit (fuse box) and the protective devices in it, including RCD protection.
- Earthing and bonding to gas and water pipes.
- The condition of the wiring, sockets, switches and fittings, looking for damage, wear and signs of overheating.
- A sample of circuits, tested to confirm they are safe and working as they should.
- Anything that has been added or altered over the years that does not meet current standards.
What the codes on your report mean
- C1: Danger present. Risk of injury, made safe straight away.
- C2: Potentially dangerous. Needs putting right urgently.
- FI: Further investigation needed without delay.
- C3: Improvement recommended. Not dangerous, but worth doing.
Any C1, C2 or FI makes the report unsatisfactory. C3 items on their own do not. We go through every item with you, so you know exactly what matters and what can wait.
How often do you need one?
- Your own home: every 10 years is the general guidance, and when you move into a property.
- Rented homes in England: at least every five years, by law. See our landlord EICR guide.
- Businesses: commonly every five years, or as your insurer requires.
If something is worrying you, such as tripping, scorch marks or a burning smell, don't wait for the calendar. Call us.
On the day
Most homes take a few hours. We need to switch circuits off while we test them, so expect short power cuts. Tell us about anything that must stay on, such as medical equipment, and we will plan around it.
What does an EICR cost?
A 1 to 2-bed flat is £150 plus VAT, a 2 to 3-bed house is £170 plus VAT, and a 4-bed house is from £200 plus VAT. Larger properties are priced on enquiry, and HMOs are quoted individually, depending on the size of the property and the installation. You get a written quote before we start. If the inspection finds work that needs doing, we price that separately and clearly, and you decide what happens next. We never use a cheap inspection to push you into work you did not ask for.
If the report shows an old fuse box needs replacing, see our consumer unit upgrades, from £650 plus VAT.