Agree the property and inspection scope
Explain how the property is used, its approximate size, the number of distribution boards and why the inspection is needed. Share a previous report if one exists. A rented home, a private house and a business premises can require different planning.
The inspection scope and any limitations should be discussed before the appointment. Restricted access or equipment that cannot be interrupted may affect what can be inspected and recorded.
Prepare occupants for power interruption
Prepare occupants for power interruption
Electrical testing requires planned interruptions. Tell the electrician about critical equipment, alarms, business systems and anyone who may be affected. Agree suitable arrangements in advance.
Make access available to the consumer unit, rooms, sockets and fixed equipment. Keep covers in place. For a rented property, coordinate with occupants and the person responsible for arranging access.
Read the overall assessment and the observations together
Read the overall assessment and the observations together
The report contains an overall assessment and detailed observations. C1 identifies danger present and C2 a potentially dangerous condition; either makes the assessment unsatisfactory. On an Amendment 4 report, FI advises further investigation and does not alone make it unsatisfactory. Older reports may use different wording, so discuss the specific observations and required actions.
A C3 is a recommendation for improvement. A C3 observation alone does not make the installation unsatisfactory. Ask the electrician to distinguish work needed to address an unsatisfactory result from optional improvements.
Keep inspection and remedial work separate
Keep inspection and remedial work separate
An EICR records the condition found. Paying for an inspection cannot guarantee a satisfactory result. Where defects are identified, you should receive a clear explanation and a separate scope for any proposed work.
After repairs, retain the original report with the relevant certification or written evidence of remedial completion. Keep the completion records with the original EICR so you can show which observations have been addressed.
Know which document you are booking
Know which document you are booking
An EICR is different from the Electrical Installation Certificate for new work and from portable appliance testing. If you need more than one service, say so when requesting the quote.
For properties covered by England’s rented-sector electrical safety rules, inspection and testing is required at least every five years, or sooner if the report specifies. Check the current official guidance for the applicable tenancy and required follow-up.
Questions answered
Does an EICR check every appliance in the property?
An EICR assesses the fixed electrical installation within the agreed inspection scope. It is not a portable appliance testing visit or a service of every item connected to it. If you also need appliance checks, provide an inventory and request that work separately.
Ask Max about thisWill the electrician need to move furniture for an EICR?
Access to relevant sockets, fixed equipment, rooms and distribution boards needs to be agreed. Identify heavy furniture and inaccessible points before the visit so practical arrangements or limitations can be discussed. Leave electrical covers in place; ask what you should make accessible rather than dismantling anything.
Ask Max about thisWhat happens if my EICR is unsatisfactory?
Ask the inspector to explain the observations, immediate safety action and the work needed. Request a defined quote for repairs or investigation and retain the original report with completion records. For a covered rented home, follow the applicable report actions and legal deadlines rather than delaying until the next inspection.
Ask Max about thisDoes FI automatically fail an EICR?
On an Amendment 4 report, FI advises further investigation and does not alone make the assessment unsatisfactory; C1 or C2 does. Earlier reports may use different wording. Ask about your report's edition and required actions. A rental report's required investigation must still be completed within the applicable deadline.
Ask Max about thisCan I book an EICR if I have no previous electrical certificates?
Yes, explain which records are missing and give the property use and details you know. Existing records can assist planning but their absence is something to discuss, rather than a reason to avoid inspection. Mention alterations and inaccessible areas so scope and limitations can be agreed.
Ask Max about thisCheck the original guidance.
These sources explain the relevant requirements. The condition and scope of your own installation still need assessment.
- GOV.UK: electrical safety in rented homes in England
- Electrical Safety First: electrical installation condition reports
- IET: further investigation and Amendment 4 reports
Guidance reviewed 24 October 2026.
