Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
What is it?
An in-depth inspection and testing of the fixed electrical wiring, switchgear, distribution boards, earthing, bonding, and circuit protection devices within a building to verify safety against electrical shock and fire.
Who is responsible?
The Duty Holder under Regulation 4(2) of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (Employers, Building Owners, Managing Agents).
What needs to happen?
- 01Engage a qualified competent electrical testing engineer (e.g. NICEIC, ECA, NAPIT approved).
- 02Conduct 100% visual inspection and representative instrument testing (insulation resistance, earth fault loop impedance, RCD disconnection times).
- 03Verify distribution board schedules and circuit labeling match physical distribution.
- 04Remediate all Code C1 (Danger Present - immediate risk) and Code C2 (Potentially Dangerous) defects promptly.
- 05Obtain an Overall Condition Assessment of "SATISFACTORY". An "UNSATISFACTORY" report indicates non-compliance until remediated.
How often?
Maximum 5 years for commercial offices, retail, and public buildings; maximum 3 years for industrial facilities. Frequencies may be shortened by competent engineer recommendation.
Source: BS 7671:2018+A3:2024 (IET Wiring Regulations) & Guidance Note 3 (Inspection & Testing).
What evidence should I hold?
Operating electrical systems with unaddressed C1/C2 defects breaches Regulation 4 of EAWR 1989. In the event of an electrical fire, building insurers may refuse indemnification if statutory periodic testing is unevidenced.
Official Sources
Electricity at Work Regulations 1989: Guidance on Regulations (HSR25)
IET Wiring Regulations BS 7671:2018+A3:2024
EntireFM Practical Guidance
EntireFM recommends conducting infrared thermal imaging surveys of main switchboards annually under normal operational electrical load. Thermography detects loose connections and phase imbalances before they escalate to catastrophic arcing.
EntireFM practical interpretation is separate from official statutory guidance. Always verify against primary legislation.