EICR Tests Explained: What You Need to Know

June 13, 2023

Know the basics

Hello, everyone! At Southern EET Testing, we understand that managing your electrical installations can often feel like navigating a complicated maze of terminology and requirements. One term you might frequently come across is EICR tests - a necessary but often misunderstood aspect of managing an electrical system. Let's go over the basics.

What are EICR Tests?

EICR, or Electrical Installation Condition Report, tests are an essential check on the safety of the electrical installations within a building. Think of them as an MOT for your electrical system. They identify potential hazards, check the quality of workmanship, and make sure everything is in compliance with the current British Standards BS7671. These tests are undertaken by trained, competent professionals who understand electrical systems inside and out.

What is Covered in an EICR Test?

An EICR test is a comprehensive assessment that covers several crucial aspects of your electrical system. This includes inspecting wiring systems, checking the condition of sockets and switches, testing protective devices to ensure they are effective, and confirming earthing arrangements and bonding are satisfactory.

The test also involves looking for any damage or wear that might affect safety, and identifying any electrical components that do not meet current safety standards. At the end of the test, you'll receive a detailed report highlighting any identified issues and recommended remedial works.

Where and When are EICR Tests Needed?

The simple answer to 'where' is everywhere that electricity is used, including homes, offices, shops, factories, and public buildings. If there's an electrical system in place, it needs an EICR test.

As for 'when', it's generally recommended that EICR tests are carried out every 10 years for homeowners, every 5 years for landlords or at each change of occupancy, and more frequently for locations like swimming pools or caravan parks. However, these are only general guidelines, and the frequency of tests can depend on the condition and type of installation.

Landlords/Building Owner Obligations

If you're a landlord or building owner, it's your responsibility to ensure the safety of your tenants and that your property is electrically sound. This involves regularly arranging for EICR tests to be conducted by a qualified electrician. The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 require landlords in England to have their properties inspected and tested by a qualified person at least every 5 years. If any issues are found during the EICR test, landlords are required to have them remedied within a specified timeframe. Failure to comply could result in substantial penalties.

Wrapping Up

EICR tests are an essential part of maintaining electrical safety in any building. They help prevent electrical accidents, ensure the longevity of your electrical systems, and give you peace of mind that your property is safe and compliant.

At Southern EET Testing, we specialise in providing comprehensive and professional EICR tests. Our team of skilled electricians are well-versed in all aspects of these tests and will ensure your electrical installations meet all necessary standards. Contact us today to schedule your EICR test and take a step towards enhanced electrical safety.

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Do New Electrical Appliances Really Need PAT Testing?

September 9, 2025

Introduction We’ve been hearing this question more and more from customers lately: “Do brand-new appliances still need PAT testing?” It’s a fair question. After all, new equipment usually arrives sealed, with manufacturer labels and testing certificates. But when it comes to safety, compliance, and peace of mind, the answer is a little more nuanced. What the Law Actually Says There is no strict legal requirement that says every appliance must be PAT tested. The law simply requires that employers and duty holders keep electrical equipment safe and properly maintained. That means the responsibility is on you to ensure equipment is safe to use, whether it’s new or not. The law doesn’t prescribe how you do it, but PAT testing is one of the most reliable methods. New Equipment: What Best Practice Looks Like Industry guidance generally states that brand-new equipment does not usually need a full PAT test . A thorough visual inspection is often enough. Why? Because new appliances are supplied as safe. But… there are a few important caveats. Why Some Organisations Still Choose to PAT Test New Appliances Even new items can develop issues before they reach you: Transit damage : knocks, drops, or rough handling. Storage conditions : damp, dust, or stacking problems. Manufacturing faults : rare, but possible. For most offices or low-risk workplaces, a visual check may be sufficient. But in higher-risk environments, like healthcare, construction, or manufacturing, many duty holders choose to test new equipment anyway. It’s about risk, peace of mind, and protecting people. A Risk-Based Approach That Works Low-risk settings (offices, shops, classrooms): Carry out a visual inspection, log the equipment, and move it into service. High-risk or critical settings (workshops, hospitals, factories): Consider a full PAT test even for new appliances, to establish a safe baseline and prevent costly downtime or accidents. Documentation and Competence Matter Whether you perform a visual inspection or a full PAT test, keep a record. This creates a clear audit trail and shows that you’ve taken reasonable steps to ensure safety. It’s also important that the person carrying out the inspection or test is competent, trained, knowledgeable, and confident in spotting issues. Conclusion: What’s the Smartest Strategy? In most cases, new appliances don’t require PAT testing, just a solid visual check as part of your risk management process. But remember: if the equipment is critical, the environment is high-risk, or there’s any sign of damage, a PAT test is a small investment in safety and peace of mind.