EICR Report
What is an Electrical Installation Condition Report
An Electrical Installation Condition Report is an in-depth inspection and test of an existing electrical installation and is reported on a form that complies with the current wiring regulations, BS7671:2008 as amended in 2011.
All of the accessible electrical accessories (socket outlets, switches, etc.) are visually inspected, with 10% of them being inspected internally. This means that the accessories are opened up to expose the wiring and terminals to establish if there is anything to suggest poor installation or quality of materials.
The Installation
The installation is also inspected for the presence of bonding conductors, the correct type and location of switchgear and that the installation is being used correctly.
Detailed Test
A detailed test follows, where a range of tests are carried out on each circuit to determine that the safety measures that have been put in place will operate correctly in fault conditions. This includes determining that the earth fault path is effective enough to result in automatic disconnection of the supply in the event of a fault, that the wiring is in good condition and that the residual current device (RCD) operates quickly enough to avoid any danger to the users of the installation.
As well as checking the condition of the installation, an EICR produces information that would be invaluable to anyone wishing to carry out any work on the installation at a later date.
Case Study: Melted wires promote Periodic Inspections
A letting agent is using this mind-boggling picture to advise all landlords who query the validity of electrical checks to have EICRs done.
When the tenant moved into the property he discovered a light that would not turn off. Or, if it did, the fuse blew. gas-elec group's Dean Cooper was called in to investigate.
Not a minute too soon! On removing the metal plate style light fitting Dean discovered all the wires melted together. The photo may be blurry, but the potential for fire is obvious.
Dean stripped back the damaged cables, fitted a new ceiling rose and tested the circuit, leaving the electrics at least safe for the tenant - not to mention the landlord!
How do you know an electrical installation or appliance is safe unless you have it checked???