What is an EICR and how often does a commercial building need one?

Quick answer: An EICR is a formal inspection and test of a building's fixed electrical installation. For most offices and shops the usual recommended interval is five years, and some higher-risk premises need testing more often.

What an EICR covers

An Electrical Installation Condition Report looks at the fixed wiring in a building: the distribution boards, circuits, sockets, lighting and anything else permanently connected. It checks the installation is safe and highlights anything that has deteriorated or doesn't meet current standards.

What the codes mean

• C1: danger present. Needs immediate action.
• C2: potentially dangerous. Needs urgent attention.
• C3: improvement recommended.
• FI: further investigation needed.

Any C1, C2 or FI codes mean the report will usually be marked unsatisfactory until the issues are put right.

How often you need one

For most offices, shops and similar commercial premises, the usual recommended maximum interval is five years. Industrial premises and buildings with higher-risk uses often need shorter intervals. The inspector will also recommend a date for the next inspection on the report.

After the report

An EICR is only useful if the findings are acted on. Keep the report safe, arrange remedial work for anything coded C1, C2 or FI, and keep the certificates for that work alongside the report.

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Related service: Testing & Compliance