What is an Electrical Installation Condition Report?
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is an electrical survey that will reveal if electrical circuits are overloaded, find any potential hazards in the installation, will identify defective DIY work, highlight any lack of earthing or bonding and will carry out tests on the fixed wiring of the whole installation. The report will establish the overall condition of the electrics and state whether they are satisfactory for continued use and should detail any work that might need to be done.
Why do I need an Electrical Installation Condition Report?
Landlords
Although not a legal requirement in the same way as a Gas Safety Certificate, Landlords must comply with the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994 and The Consumer Protection Act 1987, which requires that the electrical system in a rented property is safe at the start of a tenancy and is maintained in a safe condition throughout the term of the tenancy. However, an EICR is a legal requirement every 5 years for an HMO (House of Multiple Occupation). Even if your property is not an HMO it is likely that your insurance company will request sight of an up to date EICR for your policy to remain valid. The Electrical Safety Council recommend that landlords should have a PAT Test carried out on any portable electrical appliances they supply for use by tenants to ensure these items are fit for purpose and defect free.
Home Buyers
When considering the purchase of a new home, it is essential to check that an up to date Electrical Installation Condition Report is attached to the property. The electrical system is the one thing you cannot see and an EICR will show up any faults or defects. Bearing in mind, that the cost to re-wire an average family home will be in the region of £3.500+, an EICR could save you money by providing you with information that enables you to negotiate a price that reflects any remedial work required. You should also check if there is a Boiler Service Record and, if there are other gas appliances present, a Gas Safety Certificate. These important safety checks are not usually included in a surveyor's report, but will be a recommendation. Also, your mortgage provider is likely to request they are done. Should you decide to have these checks carried out yourself, our Home Buyers Multi-Service package will save you £££'s. Please see our prices page for options or call us on 01635 226393. Once these safety checks have completed and no faults or defects are reported, or your vendor can provide documentation that both the electrical and heating systems are in good condition and that any gas appliances are safe for continued use, you will have peace of mind that the house is safe for you and your family to move in to.
Home Sellers
If your house is over fifteen years old, it is unlikely the electrical system will be up to current standards. An Electrical Installation Condition Report will identify any faults or defects and if any are found, advise what remedial work is required. It would be wise to have this work completed before putting your house on the market or you may find yourself having to knock thousands of pounds of the asking price to secure a sale. You should also consider that a potential purchaser's mortgage lender will require evidence that both the electrical and heating systems are in good working condition and that any gas appliances have recently been safety checked. If you are able to produce an Electrical Installation Condition Report, a Boiler Service Record and a Gas Safety Certificate, you will be able to document the safety of your home. This will undoubtedly make your home more attractive to potential purchaser's and may help you to achieve a quick sale at the best price. You will also need a current Energy Performance Certificate before an Estate Agent can actively market your home. We offer Home Sellers a Multi-Service package that will save you £££'s. See our prices page for options or call us on 01635 226393.
