Circuit count and complexity affect the time
Two homes with the same number of bedrooms can have different circuit arrangements, extensions and equipment. An inspector needs to understand the installation being assessed, not simply choose a duration from a bedroom count.
Share the property type, approximate size and any previous report. Mention separate outbuildings, multiple boards, converted flats or specialist systems. These details help identify the scope and practical arrangements before an appointment is offered.
Clear access helps the appointment run smoothly
Clear access helps the appointment run smoothly
The consumer unit and relevant parts of the installation need to be accessible. Furniture, stored items, locked cupboards and occupants working in particular rooms can affect what can be inspected and tested during the agreed visit.
Tell the inspector about locked rooms, fitted furniture and inaccessible accessories before booking. These restrictions can affect the tests possible and the limitations recorded in the report; they may also require another access arrangement.
Plan for interruptions to electrical supplies
Plan for interruptions to electrical supplies
Testing can require circuits to be switched off. Tell the inspector about home working, alarms, refrigeration and equipment that cannot be interrupted without a plan. People relying on essential equipment need suitable contingency arrangements.
Agree the appointment with occupants and the person responsible for access. A business may need separate shutdown windows; a rental may require tenant coordination. Ask what needs to be ready before arrival and what interruption pattern is anticipated.
Allow for the report and any separate repairs
Allow for the report and any separate repairs
Clarify when you should expect the completed report, not only when the site visit ends. The report records the condition, findings, assessment and relevant limitations. Time spent preparing it is part of the reporting process.
If observations lead to proposed work, agree that scope and its timing separately. An EICR booking should not be treated as a promise that every defect can be repaired during the inspection appointment.
What to share with your enquiry
- Property use, size and layout
- Previous EICR if available
- Number of boards if already known
- Access restrictions and occupant needs
- Your reporting deadline
Questions answered
Will a larger house take longer to inspect?
It may, but bedroom count alone is not a reliable estimate. The number of circuits, multiple consumer units, outbuildings, property use and access can all affect the appointment. Give those details when asking for an estimated visit length.
Ask Max about thisWill the whole property lose power for the entire visit?
The interruption plan depends on the installation and testing. Ask what is anticipated for your appointment and flag equipment needing special arrangements.
Ask Max about thisIs the report available as soon as testing ends?
The completed report may need preparation after the site visit. Agree when you will receive it when booking, particularly if a tenancy, sale or other deadline depends on it.
Ask Max about thisShould I move furniture before an EICR?
Ask which ordinary access is needed to the consumer unit, sockets, switches and fixed equipment. Moving loose belongings can help, but do not remove electrical covers or dismantle fitted units yourself. Tell the inspector about inaccessible points before the visit so limitations can be discussed.
Ask Max about thisDoes an EICR appointment include fixing any faults found?
Inspection, preparing the report and carrying out repairs are separate tasks unless the quotation expressly includes additional work. Ask how urgent findings will be communicated and how follow-up work is approved. Leave room in your plans for any action identified rather than treating the inspection booking as a guaranteed repair.
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.