An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a thorough inspection that usually takes 3–4 hours for a standard property. A little preparation beforehand helps the process run smoothly and ensures nothing is missed.
1. Clear Access to the Consumer Unit
The electrician will need unrestricted access to your consumer unit (fuse box) for the full duration of the inspection. This is usually under stairs, in a utility cupboard or in the hallway. Remove any items stored in front of or underneath it.
2. Access to All Rooms
Every room in the property will need to be accessed — the electrician will need to inspect sockets, switches and light fittings throughout. Make sure all rooms are accessible, including loft spaces, garages and outbuildings.
3. Access to the Meter and Tails
The electrician will need to see the incoming supply and meter tails — the cables connecting your meter to your consumer unit. These are usually in the same location as the consumer unit.
4. Clear Access Under Floorboards (If Accessible)
Where timber floors have accessible hatch points, the electrician may need to inspect wiring underneath. If there are obvious access hatches, make sure these can be opened.
5. Make a Note of Any Known Issues
If you have any circuits that trip regularly, sockets or switches that don't work, lights that flicker or any other known issues — make a note and tell the electrician at the start of the inspection. This helps them focus on problem areas.
6. Plan for Power Outages
During the testing phase, circuits will be switched off one at a time. If you work from home, plan around this. The electrician will try to minimise the duration any circuit is off, but it's worth preparing for several short power interruptions throughout the day.
7. Have Documentation Ready
If you have any previous EICRs, electrical certificates or wiring diagrams, have these ready — they can speed up the inspection and provide a useful baseline for comparison.
Book Your EICR
Onyx Electrical Solutions carries out EICRs across Greater Manchester for homeowners and landlords. Call 07000 000000 to book, or use our contact form to request a quote.