Reasons Why You Need An Electrical Inspection/Testing Report

by | Jul 21, 2022

Day-to-day, we use A LOT of appliances that require the use of electricity. Just this morning alone, you’ve probably used a phone charger, alarm clock, TV, computer, fridge…etc.

All of these are necessities that we rely on to live our normal lives, all of which require constant source of electrical power. While we have all become accustomed to living in an electricity-fuelled world, one thing we often overlook is how safe our installations and appliances really are. In order to eliminate the risk of fire hazards, electrical inspection and testing has been designed to tackle just this, with many property/business owners not aware if their current building follows these regulations. This is where the possibility of fires can start. No matter what industry you work within (commercial, domestic, agricultural, industrial), you must ensure you have constant electrical inspections booked in over the course of a year.

The main purpose of an electrical inspection is to ensure that your properties electrical wiring is functioning to its full capacity, meaning that installations and appliances can continue to run problem-free within the business workplace. Although it is rare for electrical mishaps to take place, the chances are never 0%. It’s more than likely you have read stories in the newspapers about the devastation caused by electrical fires; well, a simple electrical inspection could result in saving lives. If there were to be any electrical faults that cause injury to a member of staff or visitor, there would be a serious issue, and the business owner will be liable. Therefore, you must stay up-to-date with inspections. Regular inspections, along with PAT testing, are just some of the requirements listed in the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.

Some of the key benefits of electrical inspections and testing of your premises include:

  • Keep Your Property & Those Inside Safe At All Times

f your electrics are faulty, not only can it cause issues with your homes electrical wiring, but it can also cause your appliances to malfunction. You will be able to tell if appliances are faulty through buzzing noises, the smell of burning, flickering or dimming or if wires are exposed.

  • Remain Compliant With Electrical Standards And British Laws

Here at MeKo, we are experts when it comes to detecting problems that usually go unnoticed. Areas of testing include the main incoming supply point, sockets, light fittings and other wiring accessories. Once completed, you will receive an up-to-date Electrical Installation Condition Report containing any defects and subsequent remedial works required. This is referred to commonly as an EICR. We follow all electrical regulations alongside testing in accordance with British Standards.

  • Avoid Damage To Irreplaceable Items

All items around the house can be covered by insurance, whether this may be electronics or vehicles; however, there are a number of possessions which are simply irreplaceable or may just have a place in your heart. Belongings such as family heirlooms or memories of past generations cannot be rebought, which means that it is essential that they remain protected while stored in your home. Although electrical faults can occur anywhere, make sure these types of items are kept well away from any form of electricity.

  • Lower Insurance Premiums

While the most significant benefit of electrical inspections is their ability to boost safety, they are also a great way to reduce home insurance premiums. In fact, many home insurance providers are now insisting that you schedule regular electrical testing, or else you will no longer be covered. This means you must provide proof that your premises has undertaken testing against your installations and electrics, else they will not provide you with a payout should an issue occur

As specialist electricians, we cannot stress enough the importance of keeping your installations and appliances in safe working order. All of these points are common within not only business premises, but in households also. If you cannot remember the last time that you gave your electricals a once over, then it is highly recommended to dig out the reports and check their dates. It is a legal obligation to have your electrics tested at a minimum of every 3 months, with emergency lighting and fire alarms needed to be checked weekly. You can see the full list below of how often you need your electrics checked to pass EICR checks.

 

Type of Installation Routine check Maximum period between inspections and testing as necessary 
Domestic accommodation –

rented houses and flats

1 year change of occupancy/5 years
Domestic accommodation –

general

1 year change of occupancy/10 years
Residential accommodation (Houses of

Multiple Occupation) – halls of residence,

nurses accommodation, etc.

1 year change of occupancy/5 years
Educational establishments 6 months 5 years
Industrial 1 year 3 years
Commercial 1 year change of occupancy/5 years
Offices 1 year 5 years
Shops 1 year 5 years
Laboratories 1 year 5 years
Hospitals and medical clinics –

general areas

1 year 5 years
Hospitals and medical clinics –

medical locations

6 months 1 year
Cinemas 1 year 1-3 years
Churches 1 year 5 years
Leisure complexes

(excluding swimming pools)

1 year 3 years
Places of public entertainment 1 year 3 years
Restaurants and Hotels 1 year 5 years
Theatres 1 year 3 years
Village halls/Community centres 1 year 5 years
Public Houses 1 year 5 years
Swimming Pools 4 months 1 year
Caravans/Caravan Parks 1 year/6 months 3 years/1 year
Emergency Lighting Weekly 3 years
Fire Alarms Weekly 1 year
Petrol Stations 1 year 1 year
Construction/Building Sites 3 months 3 months