An EICR — Electrical Installation Condition Report — is a formal assessment of the safety and condition of a property's fixed electrical installation. Unlike PAT testing, which covers portable appliances, an EICR examines the permanent wiring, consumer unit, distribution boards, sockets, switches, and all other fixed electrical infrastructure in a building.
What Does an EICR Assessment Cover?
- Consumer unit (fuse board) and distribution boards
- Fixed wiring, cables, and conduits
- Sockets, switches, and faceplates
- Earth bonding and equipotential bonding
- RCDs, MCBs, and protective devices
- Fixed lighting circuits
- Three-phase and specialist installations
- External wiring and outbuildings
Understanding EICR Codes
- C1 — Danger present, immediate action required. The installation is unsafe.
- C2 — Potentially dangerous, urgent remedial action required. The installation is unsatisfactory.
- C3 — Improvement recommended. Not a failure but best practice to address.
- FI — Further investigation required before the report can be finalised.
Who Needs an EICR?
Private landlords in England have been legally required to obtain an EICR every 5 years (or at change of tenancy) since the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020. Commercial premises should obtain an EICR every 5 years as a minimum — or more frequently in high-risk environments. An EICR is also commonly required by insurers.
EICR vs PAT Testing: Working Together
PAT testing and EICR are complementary forms of electrical safety assessment. An EICR confirms your fixed electrical infrastructure is safe; PAT testing confirms the portable appliances you plug into it are safe. Together, they provide comprehensive electrical safety coverage. MES PAT Testing Ltd provides both services across Essex and the South East.
