A Guide For Landlords: The Importance of EIRC

By McDevitt Electrical & Controls Ltd

Property Landlords: Ensure you are up to date and understand your legal obligations in relation to EIRC.

EIRC or Electrical Installation Condition Reports are vital for landlords and property owners to ensure electrical installations are satisfactory for continued use.
In this blog we explore the importance of EIRC reports for landlords and property owners, continue reading to find out more.

Key Point: It is the responsibility of the landlord, not the tenant, to arrange and obtain an Electrical Installation Condition Report.

What is an EICR Report?

An Electrical Installation Condition Report, often abbreviated to EIRC, is provided on completion of an electrical inspection. This inspection is required to meet the national standard for the safety of electrical installations, BS7671: 2018.

The test completed to complete your EIRC report may sometimes be referred to as ‘Fixed Wire Testing’. Most professionals will now refer to the test as an EICR Electrical Installation Condition Report.

It is important to note an EICR certificate is not issued to certify or commission a new electrical installation. An EIC is issued for new electrical installations and minor works for existing installations which are altered.

What does an EICR Certificate Mean?

Once your EIRC is completed, you receive a certificate which deems your electrical installation as satisfactory. This satisfactory grade ranks your electrical installation as safe for continued use.

What does an EICR Inspection Cover?

An inspection includes visual and physical testing. EICR Inspections include electrical items such as sockets, switches, light fittings, casings, circuits, distribution and fixed wiring.

This inspection looks for signs of damage. Damage such as cracks or overheating can cause significant issues, so identifying any deterioration is key. The inspection also assesses elements like insulation quality and includes both dead and live electrical testing.

When is an EICR Certificate required?

A landlord must arrange and obtain an EIRC from a competent person when:

- A new tenant is scheduled to move into a commercial property.
- Within 5 years of the last test (industry dependent).
Non-compliance to obtain an EIRC can lead to fines of up to £30,000 and may also invalidate your insurance if EICR requirements are stipulated in your policy.

Can you fail an EIRC?
The EIRC report identifies risks in four classifications, EIRC Classification Codes C1, C2, C3, and FI. These classifications categorise hazards recognised into danger and severity.

To find out more about EIRC Classification Codes C1, C2, C3, and FI and how McDevitt Electrical Contractors can provide your EIRC inspections and reports, visit our dedicated EIRC page on our website at https://mcdevitt-electrical.co.uk/our_services/eicr-certificate/