Regular Electrical checks (EICR) within the rental market properties is something that has been forgotten about over the years.
While it has been mandatory for some time that the gas installation is tested and checked every year, unfortunately there has been nothing in place for the electrical installation.
On 1st June 2020 the UK government made it mandatory that the electrical installation was inspected and tested (EICR) at least every five years. The new regulations require all new tenancies from the 1st July 2020 must have a Satisfactory ‘Electrical Installation Condition Report’ (EICR). From 1st April 2021 this regulation will also apply to existing tenancies.
What is an EICR and what is involved in an inspection? An EICR is also known as an Electrical Installation Condition Report. After the electrical installation is thoroughly tested and inspected a certificate will be issued stating the installation is either Satisfactory or Non-Satisfactory. During the testing all of the fixed electrical items will be inspected and tested as far is reasonably practicable. Items including fuseboards, socket outlets, light switches, light fittings, spurs and any other fixed electrical items. This testing does not cover PAT, also known as Portable Appliance Testing. That is a sperate testing procedure.
This change by the government has been looked on as a positive step forward within the electrical industry. As regular rental properties electrical testing keeps everyone safe.
Looking forward it is possible the government may extend the regular electrical safety tests (EICR) to domestic and commercial properties too. This is something that some insurance companies are now insisting on. With some properties not having the electrical installations checked within 30 years plus, this will be a great move in electrical safety.
Scott Cloud
info@scloudelectricalservices.co.uk
