We often take the electrics in our houses for granted, rarely giving them much thought as long as they continue to function smoothly. It’s often said: out of sight, out of mind. This means you’re less likely to consider the effects of potential damage, or wear and tear until you’re looking to get an electrical safety test certificate, or a fault has already occurred. All electrical installations deteriorate with time and use, so to ensure the safety of the users it is important that periodic testing and inspecting is carried out at regular intervals.

You can rely on Master Spark to provide a professional EICR service that prioritises safety and compliance. Our experienced and qualified electricians conduct thorough inspections, delivering accurate assessments and peace of mind for your property.

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What is an EICR?

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a comprehensive inspection and assessment of the electrical installations within a property. The purpose of an EICR is to assess the condition of the electrical installations, identify any defects, damage, or deterioration, and determine whether the installation complies with current safety standards and regulations.

During an EICR, we will inspect various components of the electrical system, including wiring, sockets, switches and consumer units (fuseboards). We will also check for any signs of wear and tear, damage, or overheating.

After the inspection, we will provide a detailed report including photos of any defects found so you know exactly what the issues are. Depending on the severity of the findings, recommendations for remedial action will be provided, such as repairs, replacements, or upgrades to improve safety and compliance. We’ll also provide a free, itemised quote for fixing them.

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An electrical inspection will ensure there are no unwanted surprises when taking ownership, preventing unexpected costs and giving you peace of mind.

When a property is altered or extended the electrics usually have to be altered too. An electrical inspection will confirm the existing system is fault free and able to incorporate the new installation.

Experiencing electrical issues such as flickering lights or tripping circuits? An electrical inspection highlights these issues, ensuring your safety and keeping your home running smoothly.

Older homes may have outdated electrical systems that are not up to current electrical standards or may be unsafe. An electrical inspection will pinpoint what needs to be improved.

Some frequently asked questions about EICR’s. If you need any more information please call us on 07950 205246.

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is a formal document produced after a thorough assessment of the electrical installation of a property. This comprehensive check is crucial for maintaining a safe living or working environment. At Master Spark, we prioritise safety and compliance, ensuring our EICR’s identify potential hazards and any non-compliances with the latest regulations.

The frequency of EICR testing varies based on the property type, use and age. For rental properties, an EICR is required every five years or at the change of tenancy. For owner-occupied homes, it is recommended every ten years, but this can be more frequent depending on the age and condition of the existing installation. We also recommend to have one carried out prior to purchasing a property, so there aren’t any expensive surprises, or once you have taken ownership of a property. Master Spark ensures timely reminders for your next EICR to keep your property compliant and safe.

The process typically includes:

  1. Visual Inspection: Electricians will visually examine all accessible electrical components, including wiring, sockets, switches, and the consumer unit (fuse box), checking for signs of damage, wear, or improper installation.
  2. Testing: Various tests will be conducted to assess the condition of the electrical installation. This includes testing for earth continuity, insulation resistance, and polarity. The testing also checks for the proper functioning of residual current devices (RCD’s).
  3. Identification of Issues: Any faults, non-compliances, or potential hazards are identified and categorised according to severity, such as C1 (danger present), C2 (potentially dangerous), and C3 (improvement recommended).
  4. Documentation: A detailed report including photo evidence will be generated, outlining the findings of the inspection, including any issues identified, necessary remedial actions, and recommendations for improvements.
  5. Follow-Up: If any issues are flagged during the inspection, the electrician will advise on the required remedial work and will offer to carry out those repairs to ensure the electrical system is safe and compliant.

The codes on an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) indicate the condition of the electrical installation and any necessary actions. Here’s a brief overview of what each code means:

  • C1 (Danger Present): This indicates an immediate risk that requires urgent action. The installation poses a serious safety hazard, and remedial work should be undertaken without delay.
  • C2 (Potentially Dangerous): This code signifies that there are issues that could become dangerous. While not as urgent as C1, it requires prompt attention to rectify the identified problems.
  • C3 (Improvement Recommended): This code suggests that improvements could be made to enhance safety, but they are not essential. While not a safety risk, addressing these issues is advisable for optimal performance.
  • FI (Further Investigation Required): This indicates that the inspector could not fully assess a part of the installation and recommends further investigation to identify any potential issues.

At Master Spark, we ensure our EICRs are clear and comprehensive, providing you with the necessary information to maintain a safe electrical system.

Legally, an EICR is not required to sell a property, but it can be a valuable asset. Providing a recent EICR gives potential buyers confidence that the electrical installation is safe and compliant with current standards. In some cases, buyers or their solicitors may request an EICR during the sale process, especially for older properties.

At Master Spark, we recommend having an up-to-date EICR, as it can help smooth the sale process and provide peace of mind for both you and the buyer.

In the electrical industry, pricing for EICR’s often reflects the level of detail and thoroughness provided. A lower quote typically means a less comprehensive inspection, with some electricians rushing through key checks or cutting corners. This approach can compromise the safety of your property, as an incomplete or inadequate report may miss potential hazards, making it ineffective and unreliable.

At Master Spark, we pride ourselves on delivering thorough, detailed EICR’s that ensure your electrical installation is fully compliant with safety regulations. Our pricing reflects the time, care, and expertise we invest in every inspection, providing you with the confidence that your property is properly assessed. When it comes to electrical safety, a more comprehensive inspection is not just better—it’s essential.

If your EICR is classified as unsatisfactory, it means that there are significant issues with your electrical installation that need to be addressed. Here’s what typically happens next:

  1. Identification of Issues: The report will specify the areas of concern, often marked with codes C1 (Danger Present) or C2 (Potentially Dangerous). These issues require immediate attention to ensure safety and compliance.
  2. Remedial Work Required: You’ll need to carry out the necessary remedial work to resolve the identified issues. This may involve repairs, upgrades, or replacements of faulty components.
  3. Retesting: Once the remedial work is completed, this work is tested. This will ensure that all issues have been resolved and that the electrical system is now safe and compliant.
  4. Certificate Issued: After successful rectification and retesting, you’ll receive a certificate to confirm that your electrical installation is safe for use.

The duration of an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) can vary depending on several factors, including the size and complexity of the property. Generally, you can expect the following timelines:

  • Inspection visit: For an average-sized home, if done thoroughly, an EICR typically takes between 3 to 4 hours to complete. This includes thorough inspections  and testing of all electrical installations, such as wiring, sockets, and circuit boards. For larger homes, the inspection may take longer, possibly up to 6 hours or more, depending on the number of circuits and the overall complexity of the electrical system.
  • Additional Time for Reporting: After the physical inspection, it may take additional time to compile and deliver the report, usually within 24 to 48 hours. The report itself can take around 1.5 – 2.5 hours to complete.

The cost of an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) can vary based on several factors, including the size of the property, its location, and the complexity of the electrical system. Prices usually start from around £150.00 + VAT for a 1 bed property, and then increase depending on the size of the property and the number of circuits the consumer unit has.

Yes, landlords are required to obtain an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) for their rental properties. As of April 2021, it is a legal requirement for landlords in England to have a valid EICR that is no more than five years old. This ensures that the electrical installations are safe and comply with current safety standards.

Having an EICR not only protects tenants by ensuring their safety, but also helps landlords avoid potential legal issues and financial penalties. If any issues are identified during the inspection, landlords are responsible for addressing them promptly to ensure the continued safety of the property.

What our customers say about us.

Below are some recent customer reviews, but to view more, check out our Checkatrade page where there are over 800 reviews.

Sam did a first class job when rewiring my new kitchen in Lymington. He is a pleasure to have around. His attention to detail is excellent, and he is very helpful and informative if any challenges present themselves throughout the project. His work is of a very high standard, and I would have no hesitation in recommending him. I will definitely call on him again for any further electrical work.

Susie BLymington

His work was meticulously completed, he is exceptionally tidy, explained everything he was going to do before he did it, and is the nicest, most honest tradesman we have ever had in our house. We cannot recommend him highly enough. I would recommend him without any reservations at all. 10/10. Exceptional.

Peter ELymington

I would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Sam. Sam has been incredible throughout the whole process, discussing options and providing advice. The installation was neat and tidy and I am really happy with the results. He really did give me peace of mind.

C. MorganBransgore

Sam is a total gentleman. Efficient, punctual, communicative and pleasant throughout, from first contact to final visit, Sam is a true professional. Highly recommended.

Rick and Annie BBrockenhurst

Sam of Master Spark was amazing. He found several faults and dealt with everything beautifully. I now feel the house is safe . He was so tidy and explained everything and got the work done in an incredibly short time. You could not go wrong with Master Spark.

M. BarnesNew Milton

Sam is professional, dependable, and trustworthy. He is exceptionally hardworking, completing all the work over two full working days - 10 hrs and 8 hrs respectively. The invoice was value for money wisely spent. Sterling work by an outstanding professional. Has given us piece of mind.

G. StaltmeierChristchurch

Excellent work. Really friendly and hard working. Very thorough and meticulous. Price was as per quote. Highly recommended.

Paul DChristchurch

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