Fixed Wire Testing
Periodic Fixed Wire Testing - also known as an Electrical Inspection Condition Report (or EICR), a Landlord Safety Test or a Homebuyers Test - is a report which assesses the condition of electrical installations within a building.
It provides a detailed assessment of any developing or serious electrical faults within a building, according to the standards set out by The 18th Edition Wiring Regulations, known as the BS7671.2018. The test also provides a clear outline of any remedial work or repairs that would ensure electrics are left in an optimal and safe condition.
Do I need an EICR?
Most buildings will need an EICR, including but not limited to:
- Schools
- Residential care homes
- FM service companies
- Commercial businesses
- Rented properties
- Domestic homes
- Community centres
While it's not often a legal requirement to carry out periodic Fixed Wire Testing specifically, the test is usually essential to ensuring your building complies with other laws or regulations.
For example, businesses are responsible for the safety of their employees under the 1974 Health and Safety at Work Act, which specifically outlines 'electricity at work regulations'. Landlords must also ensure their rented homes are electrically sound under the 1984 Landlord and Tenants Act.
As well as helping to ensure the legal electrical requirements of your building are met, Fixed Wire Testing is a great way to save money, as it often catches wiring issues early, before they turn into a larger, more costly and more difficult to resolve issue.
How often do I need a new EICR?
The BS7671 recommends having an EICR carried out at least every 10 years in domestic properties - or before you move in, if you've recently bought a new home.
However, this recommended testing frequency increases to every 5 years in a rented property, as it's the landlord's duty to ensure the home is fit for its tenants under the Landlord and Tenants Act (1985). As well as more regular EICRs, annual PAT Testing is also recommended for smaller appliances.
While uncommon in the UK, it's also worth mentioning homes with a swimming pool should have this tested at least once a year, as electrical fittings near water are even more likely to cause danger when they begin to deteriorate.
The BS7671 also recommends businesses have an EICR completed at least every 5 years, to ensure the workplace continues to comply with the aforementioned Health and Safety at Work Act.
For more information on the recommended frequency of Electrical Inspection Condition Reports, visit our helpful knowledge centre.
Who can complete Periodic Fixed Wire Testing?
It's essential that the organisation you choose to complete your Fixed Wire Testing is a certified Accredited Inspection Company, who are also accredited by recognised bodies like NICEIC or NAPIT. This is to ensure the electricians providing your service are actually qualified to do so.
If you're unsure, ask to see your electrician's qualifications and calibration certificates for their equipment - or better still, turn to a trusted electrical testing company such as Carnegie Electrical Testing. You can view our certifications here.
What will be tested?
The purpose of periodic Fixed Wire Testing is to identify any issues that could result in electrical shocks or burns, fires, excessive heat levels, or any other general danger. To do this, an electrician will take a look at the wiring of your property, and any fixed electrical components that can't easily be unplugged.
You don't need to do anything to prepare for the test, other than ensure easy access to your electrics - but it may help your electricians if you have any of your old reports to hand for their reference.
If you'd like to find out more about what an EICR entails, take a look at our handy EICR Guide.
Book your EICR in advance
Simply fill out the enquiry form for a free, no obligation quote. We provide out of hours testing during evenings and weekends at no additional cost. We recommend booking in for your EICR well in advance - especially if you require our services during busy periods such as school holidays or Christmas breaks.
If you'd like to find out more about our services, our friendly team is always happy to help - simply call 07946414567, or email us to get in touch.