Creating a more helpful home
THS offers extensive electrical safety inspections, reporting, and remedial repair services tailored for residential properties. Our team of electricians is fully certified, and all our work aligns with the prevailing BS 7671 IEE Wiring Regulations.
We are well-equipped to guide you on your responsibilities as mandated by the Electricity At Work Regulations and propose appropriate time intervals for the periodic inspections of your electrical installations. This ensures that you remain up to date with your Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), previously referred to as the Periodic Inspection Report (PIR).
The legal framework in the UK concerning the secure operation of electrical equipment and the protection of individuals in both workplace and home settings from potential electrical hazards is continually evolving. Landlords, business owners, and homeowners are all legally obliged to adhere to these regulations.
In particular, Letting Agents and Landlords must adhere to The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, which necessitates that any fixed electrical installation is safe at the commencement of a tenancy and remains adequately maintained in a secure condition throughout the tenancy. This obligation also encompasses ensuring that any portable electrical equipment is inspected and certified as safe by a competent professional.
The updated Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) has taken the place of the former Periodic Inspection Report (PIR). Non-compliance with EICR requirements can result in penalties and potential prosecution.
Electrical Inspection Reports FAQs
What is a Periodic Inspection?
A periodic inspection is the inspection of an existing electrical installation to identify any deficiencies against UK legislation for electrical installations.
What is the difference between periodic inspection report and electrical installation condition report?
The “Periodic Inspection Report” (PIR) was the former name for the outcomes of a periodic inspection. The recently designated report, the “Electrical Installation Condition Report” (EICR), differs only in terms of its format for completion and its name, as compared to its predecessor.
What does a periodic inspection test look for?
During a periodic inspection and testing, several crucial assessments are performed to:
– Determine if any of your electrical circuits or equipment are overloaded.
– Uncover potential electric shock risks and fire hazards.
– Identify any faulty electrical work.
– Highlight any absence of earthing or bonding.
Additionally, testing is conducted on the wiring and fixed electrical equipment to ensure their safety. The provision of a schedule of circuits is also a valuable outcome of this process, particularly for property management and maintenance.
When does a periodic inspection need to be carried out?
It is advisable to conduct periodic inspection and testing at the following intervals:
– For tenanted properties, every 5 years or at each change of occupancy, whichever comes first.
– At least every 10 years for owner-occupied homes.
– At least every 5 years for business premises.
The Landlords and Tenant Act 1985 mandates that landlords with properties having short leases must ensure that the electrical wiring is maintained in good repair and is in proper working condition. We recommend that landlords engage a registered electrician to perform periodic inspection and testing at the specified intervals mentioned above.
For certain locations and facilities, more frequent periodic inspection and testing are necessary:
– Caravans: Every 3 years.
– Swimming pools: Annually.