An electrical installation condition report (EICR) identifies any damage, deterioration, defects and/or conditions which may give rise to danger along with observations for which improvement is recommended.

It is a more detailed report than a Visual and will involve the testing of various circuits which will require the turning off of the electrics at the main supply. This allows the contractor to identify any possible hidden defects or issues that cannot be identified during a Visual inspection.

The purpose of an EICR (also known as periodic inspection and testing of an electrical installation), is to determine, so far as is reasonably practicable, whether the installation is in a satisfactory condition for continued service.

Homeowners often ask for, or obtain a condition report as part of a house sale. Similarly, landlords with an increasing awareness of their electrical safety obligations undertake regular periodic inspections in relation to their rental properties.

It is generally recommended that an EICR is carried out every ten years (five for privately rented properties) or when there is a change of occupancy in a dwelling.

A visual inspection is a basic check to identify any visible signs of defects, damage or deterioration.

No testing will be undertaken, so the electric will remain on during the inspection.

The electrician will need to get access to all rooms in your home. The report will typically take around 1 hour to complete depending on the size of the house.

Notes will be taken by the electrician as part of the visual inspection and a Visual Inspection Report will be issued to the customer at the end.

The Visual Inspection report will record a number of observations and recommendations and provide an overall summary of the condition of the installation.