What Happens During an EICR Test?

Discover what happens during an EICR test, how MAKSE Electrical & Renewables ensures electrical safety, and why inspections are vital for UK homes and rental properties.

Electrical safety is often overlooked, yet it’s one of the most important aspects of any property. Many homeowners, landlords, and business owners ask: “What happens during an EICR test?”

An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a professional inspection that checks your property’s electrical system for safety, potential hazards, and compliance with UK standards. At MAKSE Electrical & Renewables, we provide expert EICR testing across the UK, ensuring your home, rental, or business is safe and fully compliant.

Why EICR Testing Matters?

Electrical faults are one of the leading causes of house fires in the UK. According to the UK Fire and Rescue Service, over 20,000 fires each year are linked to electrical issues. An EICR identifies problems before they become dangerous, giving landlords, homeowners, and business owners peace of mind. For landlords, it’s also a legal requirement in England and Wales.

Step-by-Step: What Happens During an EICR Test

Understanding the process makes inspections stress-free and easy to plan. Here’s what happens during a typical EICR test:

1. Initial Visual Inspection

The electrician starts by visually examining all electrical components in your property:

• Fuse boards and consumer units
• Switches, sockets, and light fittings
• Wiring and cables
• Signs of overheating or damage

This step identifies any obvious issues before testing begins.

2. Testing Electrical Circuits

Next, each circuit is tested using specialised equipment to check:

• Continuity of protective conductors
• Insulation resistance
• Polarity and Earth connections
• Circuit breakers and RCD (Residual Current Device) operation

These tests ensure circuits function safely and effectively under load.

3. Load and Functional Checks

The electrician checks:

• Sockets and switches operate correctly under load
• RCDs trip safely
• All circuits can handle the expected electrical load

This confirms your electrical system can safely support modern living or business needs.

4. Recording Findings in the Report

All results are documented in a formal EICR report, which includes:

• Fault codes (C1, C2, C3, FI)
• Recommendations for repairs or upgrades
• Confirmation of compliance with BS 7671 Wiring Regulations

Landlords must provide a copy to tenants, while homeowners can use it for insurance or peace of mind.

How MAKSE Electrical & Renewables Can Help?

At MAKSE Electrical & Renewables, we offer:

• Professional EICR inspections across the UK
• Clear, easy-to-understand reports
• Remedial work for any faults found
• Full compliance with UK electrical safety regulations
• Related services: EV charger installation, rewiring, and solar panel electrical work

Our team ensures your property is safe, compliant, and future-ready.

FAQs

1: Will my property fail the EICR?

Yes, if there are C1 or C2 faults, repairs are mandatory.

2: Does the EICR check appliances?

No, appliances are tested separately under PAT testing.

3: How often should I get an EICR?

Every 5 years for rental properties, every 10 years for homes.

4: Will power be turned off during the inspection?

Yes, for safe testing of circuits.

Conclusion

An EICR is more than just a legal requirement; it’s a crucial safety check for your home, rental, or business. Knowing what happens during an EICR test helps you feel confident and prepared.

At MAKSE Electrical & Renewables, we provide professional, reliable, and fully compliant EICR inspections. Protect your property, tenants, or business today. Book your EICR inspection now.