An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is not a legal requirement in all cases, but it is highly recommended and serves as an important tool to ensure electrical safety. However, there are certain situations where an EICR is mandatory:
1. **Rented Properties:** In the UK and London, landlords are legally required to ensure that the electrical installation in their rented properties is safe. This typically involves obtaining an EICR every 5 years, or at each change of tenancy, whichever comes first.
2. **Commercial Premises:** The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 requires that electrical installations in commercial premises are maintained to prevent danger. While an EICR is not specifically mandated by law, it is considered best practice to have regular EICRs carried out, typically every 5 years or as specified by the competent person conducting the inspection.
3. **Change of Use:** When a property changes use, such as converting a residential building into a commercial space, an EICR may be required to ensure the electrical installation meets the relevant safety standards for the new use.If an EICR fails and identifies dangerous or potentially dangerous conditions, it is important to take prompt action. Here’s what you should do:
1. **Address C1 and C2 Observations:** Any C1 or C2 observations in the EICR indicate immediate or potential risks. These should be treated as a priority and remedial work should be carried out as soon as possible by a qualified electrician.
2. **Notify Relevant Parties:** Landlords or property owners should inform tenants, employees, or relevant authorities about the failed EICR and the steps being taken to rectify the issues.
3. **Obtain a Quote for Remedial Work:** Get a quote from a qualified electrician to understand the cost and scope of the necessary repairs or improvements.
4. **Arrange for Remedial Work:** Schedule the remedial work to be carried out as soon as practicable. It is advisable to use a reputable and qualified electrician who can provide certification upon completion of the work.
5. **Obtain a New EICR:** Once the remedial work is completed, a new EICR should be carried out to ensure that the electrical installation now complies with the required safety standards.
It is important to treat electrical safety with the utmost seriousness. Failure to address issues identified in an EICR can lead to serious safety hazards, including electrical fires and shocks. It may also result in legal consequences, particularly for landlords or businesses, if they are found to be negligent in maintaining safe electrical installations.