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An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a critical assessment to ensure your property’s electrical system is safe and compliant with current regulations. Formerly known as a Periodic Inspection Report (PIR), the EICR identifies faults, hazards, and areas requiring improvement to protect occupants from electrical risks.
Table of contents
At MGB Electrical Solutions Ltd – Fulham Electrician, I specialise in professional EICR services tailored for clients in Fulham, Earl’s Court, West Kensington, Kensington, South Kensington, Chelsea, and nearby areas (SW5, SW6, SW7, SW10, W14, and W8). With extensive experience and a commitment to quality, I help ensure your property is safe and up to standard.
What is an EICR?
An EICR is a detailed evaluation of an electrical installation’s condition, assessing its safety and compliance with BS 7671: IET Wiring Regulations. It provides a snapshot of the system’s integrity and functionality, highlighting potential risks and recommending necessary actions.
Formerly: Periodic Inspection Report (PIR)
The EICR replaced the PIR to provide a more structured, modernised approach to electrical assessments.
Who Needs an EICR?
- Landlords: Legally required under the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, landlords must carry out an EICR every 5 years or at the start of a new tenancy.
- Homeowners: Especially for older homes or properties that have undergone significant modifications.
- Business Owners: Compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 is essential to protect employees and visitors.
Common Issues Identified During EICRs
During EICRs, several common faults and safety concerns are frequently observed:
1. Broken Ring Continuity
A break in a ring circuit compromises its ability to distribute electrical load evenly, increasing the risk of overheating and faults.
2. Absence of Main Protective Bonding
Main protective bonding is essential for connecting incoming services (e.g., gas and water) to the earth. Its absence poses significant risks of electric shock.
3. Poorly Terminated Downlights
Improperly terminated connections in downlights can lead to loose or exposed wiring, creating fire hazards.
4. Non-Fire-Rated Downlights in Fire-Rated Ceilings
Installing non-fire-rated downlights in ceilings that are fire-rated compromises the integrity of the fire barrier, endangering the occupants during a fire.
5. Broken Circuit Protective Conductor (CPC) Continuity
A break in the CPC prevents effective fault protection, exposing people and equipment to electric shocks.
What Does an EICR Involve?
An EICR involves a series of tests and inspections to identify faults and hazards:
1. Visual Inspection
Assessing for visible damage, deterioration, or unsafe practices like:
- Cracked or damaged outlets
- Signs of overheating or burning
- Incorrect installations
2. Continuity Testing
Verifies the integrity of the protective conductors to ensure all parts of the system are adequately earthed.
3. Insulation Resistance Testing
Checks for adequate insulation between conductors to prevent current leaks that could cause shocks or fires.
4. Polarity Testing
Confirms that all live, neutral, and earth connections are correctly wired.
5. Earth Fault Loop Impedance Testing
Measures the resistance of the fault current path to ensure circuit breakers or RCDs operate correctly during faults.
6. RCD Testing
Tests Residual Current Devices to ensure they trip within the specified time to prevent electric shocks.
7. Final Evaluation
The system’s condition is summarised, with faults coded based on severity:
- C1: Immediate danger – requires urgent attention
- C2: Potential danger – remedial work required
- C3: Improvement recommended
- FI: Further investigation needed
Why Choose MGB Electrical Solutions Ltd?
- NAPIT Registered (#16720): Accreditation ensures compliance with the highest safety and quality standards.
- JIB Gold Card Holder: Demonstrates professional competence in electrical installation.
- Over 200 Positive Reviews on Checkatrade: Reflecting trust, quality, and customer satisfaction.
- Local Expertise: Based in Fulham, serving SW5, SW6, SW7, SW10, W14, and W8.
Service Areas
I provide EICR services across:
- Fulham (SW6)
- Earl’s Court (SW5)
- West Kensington (W14)
- Kensington (W8)
- South Kensington (SW7)
- Chelsea (SW3, SW10)
Contact MGB Electrical Solutions Ltd
Ensure your property is safe and compliant with a professional EICR. Contact me today:
- Phone: 07891 615 870
- Email: info@mgbelectrical.com
FAQs
Landlords: Every 5 years or at the start of a new tenancy.
Homeowners: Every 10 years or following major changes to the electrical system.
Depending on the property size, an EICR usually takes between 2-4 hours.
I’ll provide a detailed report outlining the issues, along with a no-obligation quote for remedial works.
Non-fire-rated or poorly terminated downlights pose fire and safety risks, especially in fire-rated ceilings.
For expert and reliable EICR services in Fulham, Earl’s Court, West Kensington, Kensington, South Kensington, Chelsea, and nearby areas, trust MGB Electrical Solutions Ltd to deliver thorough, professional inspections. Contact me today to book your EICR!
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