Whether you own, rent out, or plan to buy a home, knowing the state of your electrics is more than common sense. It’s crucial for safety and compliance. Faulty wiring can lead to fires, electric shocks, and expensive repairs. Here's what an electrical safety check in the UK really involves- and why you shouldn’t skip it.
Key Takeaways
An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is a detailed safety check of your home’s fixed wiring.
It’s carried out by a qualified electrician to identify faults, risks, and non-compliance with UK standards.
The inspection includes visual checks, dead and live testing, and a graded report.
Common issues found include outdated fuse boxes, lack of RCDs, damaged sockets, and DIY mistakes.
Homeowners should get an EICR every 10 years; landlords are legally required to every 5.
Booking a certified electrician ensures your report is valid, recognised, and insurance-compliant.
What Is an Electrical Safety Check?
An electrical safety check (commonly referred to as an EICR or Electrical Installation Condition Report) involves a qualified electrician inspecting the fixed electrical systems in your home.
This includes checking the consumer unit (fuse box), sockets, switches, wiring, lighting, and protective devices (like RCDs) to ensure they are safe, compliant with current UK standards, and not posing any danger to life or property.
What Does an Electrical Safety Check Involve?
A home electrical inspection in the UK is a detailed, structured process carried out in accordance with the BS 7671 wiring regulations, which set the national standards for electrical installations. The check is designed to assess the overall condition of your property's fixed wiring and highlight any potential safety risks or areas of non-compliance.
Did You Know? UK electrical checks follow BS 7671- the national safety standard. An EICR spots hidden faults before they become serious risks.
During a typical inspection, a qualified electrician will carry out the following:
Initial visual assessment – This involves checking the condition of visible components such as sockets, switches, the consumer unit (fuse box), and any accessible wiring for obvious signs of wear, damage, or poor workmanship.
Dead testing and live testing – These electrical tests are used to assess the integrity of your wiring. Dead testing checks continuity and insulation resistance with the power off, while live testing verifies RCD functionality, earthing arrangements, and whether the system would safely disconnect in the event of a fault.
Fault identification and coding – Any defects or deviations from regulations are documented and graded using a standard coding system (C1, C2, or C3), indicating the urgency of remedial action required.
Compilation of the EICR report – All findings are summarised in a formal Electrical Installation Condition Report, which outlines the safety status of your system and includes recommendations for any remedial work needed to bring the installation up to standard.
For an average three-bedroom property, an electrical safety check usually takes between 2 to 4 hours, but larger or older properties- or those with more complex systems — may require more time.
Serious about electrical safety?
We are too
What Are Electricians Looking For?
The inspection aims to uncover any issues that could pose a risk now or in the future. The electrician will be checking for:
Signs of wear, ageing, or physical damage to fittings, sockets, switches, and wiring
Non-compliance with current regulations, especially in older installations
Evidence of overloading, such as overheating or scorched terminals
Faults that increase the risk of fire or electric shock, including poor insulation or loose connections
Lack of RCD protection, which is vital for preventing injury in high-risk areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor circuits
The goal is not only to ensure your system is safe today but also to future-proof your property by identifying risks before they become dangerous or costly.
An EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) is the official document produced after a comprehensive assessment of your property’s fixed electrical installation. It provides a full evaluation of your home’s electrical safety, highlighting any potential hazards or non-compliance with UK regulations.
Here’s exactly what happens during the process:
1. Visual Inspection
The first stage is a thorough visual assessment of all accessible parts of the electrical installation. This doesn’t involve dismantling or switching off the power- instead, it focuses on identifying visible signs of damage, deterioration, or unsafe work.
An electrician will inspect:
Sockets and switches – checking for cracks, discolouration, looseness, or signs of overheating
Lighting fittings and accessories – ensuring proper installation and signs of safe usage
The consumer unit (fuse box) – assessing whether it includes modern features like circuit breakers and RCDs, and checking for labelling, overcrowding or outdated fuse systems
Wiring and trunking – inspecting any visible cables for fraying, kinks, or exposure
General condition – looking for scorch marks, melted components, broken casings, or anything else suggesting past faults or ongoing risks
This step allows the electrician to form an early picture of the installation’s age and condition and to identify any obvious safety concerns before proceeding to testing.
2. Dead Testing (Continuity & Insulation Resistance)
Once the visual check is complete, the power is turned off to perform dead testing, which is crucial for ensuring the internal safety of the wiring system. These tests are non-live, meaning they can be carried out safely without any current running through the circuits.
There are two main parts to this phase:
Continuity Testing – This confirms that all conductors (live, neutral, and earth) are properly connected and that there are no loose or broken wires. It ensures that electricity can flow safely and that protective devices such as fuses or circuit breakers will operate effectively.
Insulation Resistance Testing – This checks the integrity of the insulation around wires. Damaged insulation can lead to electric shocks or fires due to current leakage. The test involves applying a high voltage to the wires and measuring any leakage — ideally, there should be none.
These tests ensure that your circuits are intact, safe to operate, and not at risk of short-circuiting or electrical leakage.
3. Live Testing (RCD Functionality & Earth Fault Loop Impedance)
With the dead tests complete and any initial concerns addressed, the electrician will restore power to carry out live testing. This stage evaluates how the system behaves under normal operating conditions and in response to faults.
Key tests include:
RCD Testing (Residual Current Device)
RCDs are life-saving devices that disconnect the electricity supply within milliseconds if they detect a leakage of current, such as when someone accidentally touches a live wire.The test simulates a fault to ensure the RCD trips at the correct current and within the required time (typically under 300 milliseconds). If it fails to trip, it could mean the device is faulty or improperly connected.
Earth Fault Loop Impedance Testing
This test checks the overall resistance of the earth fault path — in other words, how quickly a fault current can travel back to earth and trip the protective devices.A low impedance means the fault current can flow easily and trip the device quickly, reducing the risk of shock or fire. If the reading is too high, it means the protective system may not operate in time during a fault, which is a serious safety issue.
Live testing validates that your electrical system is not only compliant in design but is functioning safely in practice.
4. Observations & Grading
As faults or issues are found throughout the inspection, they are logged and categorised based on severity. These observations are not just helpful- they are central to determining whether your electrical installation passes or fails the safety check.
Each issue is given a classification code:
C1 (Danger Present)
This indicates an immediate risk to safety. For example, exposed live wires or a burnt-out consumer unit would fall under C1.Action must be taken immediately, and the electrician is likely to isolate the circuit or component on the spot.
C2 (Potentially Dangerous)
A C2 issue may not pose an imminent threat, but it does increase the risk of danger over time. Common examples include lack of RCD protection in wet areas, or loose wiring within the consumer unit.These faults must be rectified as soon as possible for the system to be considered safe.
C3 (Improvement Recommended)
This grade is used when something doesn’t comply with current standards but isn’t dangerous. For instance, older-style light fittings that still function safely but don’t meet today’s regulations might receive a C3.While not mandatory to fix, it’s good practice to address C3s over time — especially if you’re planning renovations or upgrades.
Only EICRs with no C1 or C2 faults are deemed “satisfactory.” If any such issues are identified, remedial work will be needed before the system can be certified as safe.
5. EICR Report Issued
The final step in the process is the issue of the Electrical Installation Condition Report itself. This is the formal documentation of the inspection, containing:
An overall summary of the condition of your electrical installation
A list of all observations, with classification codes and locations
Test results for each circuit and protective device
A clear pass or fail outcome, based on the presence of C1 or C2 issues
Recommended remedial actions required to achieve compliance and safety
Details of the electrician or company that carried out the inspection
This report is more than just a piece of paper- it’s a legal record and a key safety document.
It is especially important for:
Homeowners, as it provides peace of mind and forms a safety record for insurance or future sales
Landlords, who are legally required to provide tenants with a valid EICR
Buyers and sellers, as part of conveyancing or to help inform negotiations
Letting agents and property managers, who need to demonstrate electrical safety compliance across their portfolios
If faults are identified, the electrician may offer to carry out the remedial work or refer you to another qualified contractor. Once all issues have been resolved, a follow-up certificate or a new EICR may be issued to confirm compliance.
Do I Need an Electrical Safety Certificate?
Is It a Legal Requirement for Homeowners?
While there is no legal requirement for private homeowners to obtain an EICR, it is strongly recommended every 10 years- or before buying/selling a house, after major renovations, or if you notice electrical issues.
Landlord Electrical Safety Certificate Requirements
For landlords, the rules are strict:
A landlord electrical safety certificate (EICR) is legally required every 5 years in England for all rented properties.
A copy must be given to new tenants before they move in, and to existing tenants within 28 days of the inspection.
Failure to comply can lead to fines of up to £30,000.
Electrical Safety Inspection Cost UK
The cost of a periodic electrical inspection in the UK varies, but here are realistic price ranges:
Estimated EICR Cost (UK)
1-bed flat: £120 – £180
2-3 bed house: £150 – £250
4-5 bed house: £250 – £400
Large property or complex wiring: £400+
What Affects the Cost of an Electrical Safety Inspection?
The cost of an EICR check in the UK can vary significantly depending on several key factors. While smaller properties may pay a lower fee, more complex or urgent inspections naturally come at a higher price. Here’s what influences the final cost:
Property size and number of circuits
Larger properties typically have more rooms, circuits, and consumer units to inspect, which increases both the time required and the complexity of the inspection. A small one-bed flat with a single consumer unit will cost less than a four-bed house with multiple distribution boards.Accessibility of the installation
If sockets, wiring, or the consumer unit are difficult to access — for example, in a loft, behind appliances, or built into walls — the inspection will take longer and may incur additional charges. Easy access helps keep costs down.Urgency of the booking
Same-day or short-notice inspections may come with premium pricing, especially if you're working to tight deadlines (e.g. for a property sale, tenancy change, or urgent insurance requirement).Whether remedial works are required
If the report identifies C1 or C2 faults, remedial work will be necessary to bring the installation up to standard. Some electricians offer a bundled price including minor repairs; others charge separately for this. Be sure to clarify whether corrective work is included in the quote.Local market rates
Prices vary depending on your region. Electrical safety inspections in London or the South East are generally more expensive than in other parts of the UK, due to higher overheads and demand. Rural areas may be slightly cheaper, but availability of registered electricians can affect this.
Tip: Always request a detailed quote in advance and confirm exactly what’s included. Some electricians offer a flat rate, while others base pricing on the number of circuits tested.
Before agreeing to any work, ask for a full breakdown of what's covered. It’s also worth asking whether the quote includes:
VAT (if applicable)
A written EICR certificate
Minor repairs (such as replacing a socket or tightening a loose connection)
Comparing quotes from a few qualified, registered electricians will ensure you're getting fair value for a thorough, legally compliant inspection.
Who Can Carry Out an EICR?
Not just anyone can legally or safely carry out an EICR in the UK. Electrical safety inspections must be conducted by a qualified, competent person who has the appropriate training, certification, and experience to test, inspect, and report on fixed electrical installations.
To ensure the inspection is valid, recognised, and compliant with UK regulations, your chosen electrician must meet the following criteria:
1. They must be registered with an approved accreditation body
The electrician or electrical contractor should be registered with a government-approved scheme, which demonstrates that they are regularly assessed, technically competent, and operating to industry standards. Trusted accreditation schemes include:
NICEIC (National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting)
One of the most recognised bodies in the UK, NICEIC-registered electricians are regularly assessed and approved to carry out all types of electrical work, including EICRs.NAPIT (National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers)
NAPIT members are qualified to undertake inspection and testing in domestic, commercial, and industrial settings, and are held to high technical and professional standards.ELECSA
Now part of the NICEIC family, ELECSA-registered electricians are approved to carry out work in accordance with Part P of the Building Regulations, including EICR assessments in homes.
2. They must hold the correct qualifications and certifications
To legally and competently issue an EICR, the electrician must have specific qualifications in inspection and testing. These, typically, are:
Level 3 Certificate in Inspection and Testing or equivalent
Up-to-date knowledge of BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations)
Part P certification, allowing them to carry out domestic electrical work in line with UK building regulations
These qualifications ensure the electrician understands how to identify defects, carry out live and dead testing, and interpret the results correctly.
3. They should carry valid insurance and demonstrate experience
It’s vital that the contractor or company you hire has:
Public liability insurance (usually a minimum of £2 million)
Professional indemnity insurance, particularly if offering advice or design input
Proven experience in carrying out EICRs on residential properties similar to yours
An experienced electrician will be more efficient, better able to spot subtle issues, and capable of explaining the results clearly.
4. Ask for proof before you proceed
Before confirming the booking, always ask to see:
Proof of registration with an approved scheme (e.g. a NICEIC or NAPIT ID card)
Evidence of insurance cover
Recent examples of issued EICR reports
Reviews or testimonials from previous clients, if available
You can also verify their credentials by checking the official register of their scheme provider (e.g. NICEIC or NAPIT websites).
Hiring the right person is crucial- not only for your safety, but to ensure the report is recognised by insurers, solicitors, letting agents, and local authorities. Using an unqualified or unregistered individual could result in an invalid inspection, missed hazards, and even legal issues.
Common Issues Found During a Home Electrical Inspection
An EICR check often reveals issues that aren’t immediately visible — especially in older properties, homes that haven’t been inspected in years, or those where past DIY electrical work has been carried out without proper certification. These faults may not cause everyday problems, but they can pose serious risks behind the scenes.
Here are some of the most frequently identified issues during a home electrical inspection in the UK:
Outdated Consumer Units
Many older properties still have fuse boxes with rewirable fuses or a lack of RCDs. These older units offer minimal protection against electric shock and may not meet current safety standards. Modern consumer units are equipped with Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs) and Residual Current Devices (RCDs), which react much faster and provide more reliable protection. Upgrading your consumer unit is one of the most impactful safety improvements you can make.
No RCD Protection
RCDs (Residual Current Devices) are life-saving components that cut power if they detect an imbalance in current- such as when someone accidentally touches a live wire. If your circuits, particularly those in wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoor sockets, lack RCD protection, this will almost certainly result in a C2 fault during an EICR. It's one of the most common causes of an unsatisfactory report.
Damaged Sockets and Switches
Cracks in faceplates, scorch marks, or visibly loose switches can indicate overheating, overloading, or wear and tear. These issues often arise from poor-quality materials, old age, or years of daily use. Even if the damage seems minor, it can pose a fire or shock hazard, particularly if it affects the integrity of the wiring behind the surface.
Exposed or Insecure Wiring
Loose or exposed wiring, whether under floorboards, in loft spaces, or behind appliances, is a serious concern. Improperly secured cables, visible junction boxes, or deteriorated insulation can lead to short circuits, electrical arcing, or shock risk. These are particularly common in properties with extensions or historic rewiring where safety standards may not have been followed.
Poor DIY Work
DIY electrical installations are a regular culprit in failed EICRs. Whether it’s unapproved lighting installations, makeshift outdoor sockets, or added circuits that haven’t been properly earthed, non-compliant or unsafe alterations are often hidden from view until a formal inspection takes place. DIY work that bypasses building regulations or Part P requirements can invalidate insurance or lead to prosecution in rental properties.
Overloaded Circuits
Plugging too many appliances into a single socket or running multiple high-powered devices on one circuit (e.g. kettles, tumble dryers, heaters) can overload the system. This causes tripping, overheating, and damage to protective devices over time. Overloaded circuits not only reduce efficiency but can lead to fires or equipment failure.
Earthing Issues
Proper earthing is critical for preventing electric shock, especially for metal fittings or appliances connected to water supplies. An EICR may reveal missing or inadequate earthing on lighting circuits, socket outlets, or metallic pipework. This is a major safety concern and will typically be classed as a C1 or C2 fault, requiring urgent attention.
Each of these issues can compromise your home’s safety and must be dealt with by a qualified electrician. The benefit of an EICR is that it not only uncovers problems you may not see- it tells you which ones pose immediate danger, and which ones should be addressed to meet modern safety standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do I need an electrical safety check in the UK?
Homeowners: Every 10 years, or when concerns arise.
Landlords: Every 5 years, or at the start of a new tenancy.
Is an electrical safety check a legal requirement for homeowners?
Not currently- but it is strongly recommended for safety and insurance purposes, and often requested during home sales.
What does an EICR certificate show?
It provides:
An overall assessment of the safety and compliance of your fixed wiring
A record of observations, faults, and non-compliances
Grading of issues (C1, C2, C3)
A pass or fail outcome
Do I need a safety check when buying or selling a house?
Not legally, but most solicitors, surveyors, and buyers now expect it, especially if the installation is over 10 years old or appears outdated.
Don’t Skip Your Safety Check
Your home might look spotless, but if your wiring is hiding faults, you could be living with a silent risk. Electrical safety checks aren’t about ticking boxes- they’re about protecting your home, your family, and your finances.
Whether you're a landlord needing a landlord electrical safety certificate, a homeowner overdue a periodic electrical inspection in the UK, or someone preparing for a sale, an EICR can uncover critical issues before they escalate.
An electrical safety check in the UK involves more than a glance at your fuse box- it’s a regulated, thorough process that could save lives. Prioritise it.
Book your EICR with a qualified, accredited AC1 Electrician today.