Describe what has stopped working
A recurring trip, dead socket and intermittent lighting problem are different briefs. Describe what happens during ordinary use and what you want restored. You do not need to identify the failed part or select a replacement before making contact.
An EICR is a condition report on an installation within an agreed scope; it is not a substitute name for troubleshooting a specific fault. If you also need a rental or property report, ask about that separately.
What the electrician needs to reach
What the electrician needs to reach
The electrician may need the consumer unit, affected accessories and relevant parts of the route to be accessible. A fault noticed at one socket may not originate there. Explain locked cupboards, fixed furniture or occupied rooms before the appointment.
For a business, nominate someone who knows what can be interrupted. In a rental, coordinate the occupants and responsible contact. Access restrictions can limit an investigation and should be made clear in the agreed visit arrangements.
How the investigation is charged
How the investigation is charged
Ask how diagnostic time is charged, what the initial visit includes and when approval is needed for additional work. Diagnosis establishes the cause; a repair can then be explained and priced from the findings.
Some faults are present when the electrician arrives; others are intermittent. Explain the pattern and previous attempts to repair it. The findings may identify a repair immediately, or a further investigation, part or access arrangement may be needed.
What you should know after the visit
What you should know after the visit
The explanation should distinguish the defect found, any action taken to make the situation safe and work still proposed. Ask whether equipment can be used, whether any circuit remains out of use and what records apply to completed work.
If there is an associated improvement you want, such as additional sockets or new lighting, add it to the brief. Keeping it separate allows the original fault and optional changes to be discussed and priced clearly.
What to share with your enquiry
- The symptoms and affected equipment
- When and how often it happens
- Previous repairs or test reports
- Access limits and power interruptions
- Your postcode and preferred contact details
Questions answered
Is fault finding the same as an EICR?
No. A fault-finding visit investigates a reported problem; an EICR assesses the condition of an installation within its agreed scope.
Ask Max about thisCan the fault be repaired during the first visit?
Sometimes, once the cause is established and suitable parts and access are available. An intermittent fault, concealed route or specialist component may need a follow-up. Ask what the diagnostic visit includes and how any repair is approved.
Ask Max about thisWhat if the fault does not happen during the visit?
A description of the recurring pattern helps. The electrician can explain what can be established and whether more information or a follow-up is needed.
Ask Max about thisHow is electrical fault finding priced?
The price depends on diagnostic time, access and the fault being investigated. Ask what the initial visit includes, how further time is charged and when you will be asked to approve repairs or parts. A symptom alone is not enough to price the final repair.
Ask Max about thisWill fault finding involve lifting floors or opening walls?
Some faults can be investigated at accessible equipment; others need further access before the cause can be confirmed. Flag fitted furniture, delicate finishes and restricted areas when booking. Agree any intrusive access and making-good responsibilities before those parts of the investigation proceed.
Ask Max about thisSources and further reading
Read the original guidance relevant to this question. Building Regulations and rental-law references here relate to England.