What is an EICR and do I need one – Advice from Electriman, North London Electricians

What is an EICR and Do I Need One?

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is an official document produced after a thorough inspection and testing of all the fixed electrical wiring and equipment in your home or property. Think of it like an MOT — but for your electrics.

What Does an EICR Cover?

A qualified electrician will inspect and test:

Consumer unit (fuse board) — checking for correct breaker types, RCDs, and physical condition

Wiring throughout the property — looking for deterioration, damage, or outdated cable types

Sockets, switches, and light fittings — checking for damage and correct installation

Earthing and bonding — ensuring metallic pipework and services are properly connected

Any previous DIY or substandard work — identifying unsafe alterations

What Do the Results Mean?

After the inspection, you'll receive a report with any issues coded as:

C1 (Danger Present) — Requires immediate action; unsafe to use

C2 (Potentially Dangerous) — Urgent remedial work needed

C3 (Improvement Recommended) — Not dangerous but worth updating

FI (Further Investigation Required) — More investigation needed before a verdict

Do You Need One?

You should have an EICR if:

You're a landlord — it's a legal requirement every 5 years or at change of tenancy

You're buying a property — especially one over 25 years old or with unknown e

Need a qualified electrician in North London?

Electriman covers Mill Hill, Barnet, Finchley, Edgware, Enfield, Watford and surrounding areas. All work is Part P certified and fully insured.